NAIDOC Week 2024: Through someone else's eyes - with Rod Gardner

NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and achievements. This year's theme, Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud, emphasises the resilience and pride of Indigenous communities.

As part of NAIDOC Week 2024 celebrations, QVMAG is proud to welcome Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Rod Gardner to the Museum at Inveresk and Art Gallery at Royal Park for a series of free, live art sessions.

Join Rod as he moves throughout gallery spaces on the day, using the essence of plein air painting to inspire a series of sketches and paintings in response to exhibitions on display.

Visitors will have the unique opportunity to see Rod Gardner bring the site to life through his watercolour artworks. By observing his creative process, participants can gain insight into his artistic journey and connect with his stories as a Tasmanian Aboriginal.

Rod, a friendly and chatty artist, welcomes the chance to meet new people. "The best thing about painting outdoors is when I look at my paintings, they come with the memories of the people that I met that day," he said.

Join with Rod in an open dialogue as he creates on site, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of his art and the rich cultural heritage he represents.

Join Rod Gardner at QVMAG:

• Sunday 30 June, 11:00am-3:00pm – Art Gallery at Royal Park​
• Friday 5 July, 11:00am-3:00pm – Museum at Inveresk
• Tuesday 8 July, 11:00am-3:00pm – Museum at Inveresk
  

No bookings required in this free open session.

About the artist

Rod Trip Gardner, an emerging Aboriginal artist, finds inspiration in various aspects of painting. His primary subjects include members of the Aboriginal community and the picturesque river and streetscapes of Launceston. Rod currently works with watercolors and charcoal, favoring the plein air style—painting outdoors.

Rod is self-taught, learning through online resources and practical experience. Additionally, he was fortunate to receive a grant from Arts Tasmania, which allowed him to be mentored by the renowned Tasmanian artist, Jonathan Bowden.

Recently, Rod has become part of the teaching staff at Brisbane Street Art School, where he provides professional art instruction to fellow Tasmanians.

@rodtripgardnerart_Watercolour_Rod