THE Phoenix Gallery in Bowraville is alive with colour, culture and creativity as it hosts “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, an annual NAIDOC Week exhibition celebrating the voices and talents of local students.
Presented on Gumbaynggirr Country, this year’s showcase features powerful and evocative works by students from Bowraville Central School, Bowraville Preschool, Tallowood Steiner School, and St Mary’s Bowraville.
Responding to the 2025 NAIDOC theme, the students have explored the strength, vision and legacy of their Elders through diverse art forms including painting, pottery, mosaic and weaving.
Highlights of the exhibition include Bren-nita Buchanan’s naturally dyed hanging weaving which is part of her Year 12 major work in progress, a vibrant collaborative Rainbow Serpent mosaic destined for installation at the new cultural centre at Bowraville Central, and beautifully detailed textile pieces from Tallowood and St Mary’s that honour growth and connection to Country.
The exhibition was officially opened with a moving Welcome to Country by Auntie Diana Flanders and Bowraville Central student Tehnaya West.
Special recognition was given to teacher Emily King for her leadership and commitment to fostering creative expression and cultural pride among her students.
The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy is on display at the Phoenix Gallery from 27 June to 24 July and is a must-see for anyone interested in the future of First Nations art and culture.
As the vibrant works fill the gallery with stories of identity, pride and hope, it’s clear that the next generation is not only listening to the wisdom of their Elders, they are building on it with strength and vision.
By Mick BIRTLES and Jack HODGES
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
