Blackgin (Georgia MacGuire)

Blackgin’s practice builds on the artist’s modality, which focuses on the inter-connections between culture, human rights, feminism and flesh. Her works often incorporate natural materials and ultimately centre on the relationship with Country and its voice. One that is indivisible from the artist. For using materials is not only a vehicle for honouring Country, but it is also the flesh of Country.

The imposition of gender is a re-imagining of previous works that are based on intersectionality and her Indigenous voice. The work draws on the flesh qualities of the materials, a collection of paperbark sculptures that are bodily representations of female genitalia. It further explores the taboos and cultural ideas of Women’s Business and how those ideas can often conflict with Non-Indigenous values around sexual and reproductive health. Similarly, this material expression speaks of prejudice and its impact faced by Indigenous women in Australia.

Opposite Image: The imposition of gender. Paper bark, gum nut, medium and polymer clay, possum skin, oil paint, cotton thread, polymer fill, acrylic adhesive and fabric medium, 2015 – ongoing.