Adapting to Covid-19 restrictions, Confined, The Torch’s annual exhibition of works from Indigenous artists currently in or recently released from prison, will, for the first time in its 11-year history be presented within a stunning virtual gallery from 14 May to 7 June 2020.
From experienced artists to first time painters premiering their works, the Confined 11 exhibition presents 300 works from 286 artists depicting Indigenous perspectives on identity, art, connection to culture and Country.
The virtual gallery offers visitors an authentic, full gallery experience including a walk-through of the customised space and 3D visuals of each of the artworks across a range of mediums and styles.
Art lovers will have the opportunity to view and buy the works – with 100% of the sale price of each Confined artwork going directly to individual artists, the sales are providing significant support for the artists and investing in the philosophy of The Torch’s Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community Program.
“During these unprecedented times, which are impacting severely on the arts, Indigenous offenders and ex-offenders exhibiting in Confined 11 are more isolated and vulnerable than ever before. The economic and social capital gained from sharing their culture and stories goes a long way to maintaining wellbeing, connectedness and the ability to focus on the path ahead,” said The Torch CEO Kent Morris.
The Torch has worked extensively with German company Kunstmatrix, who have significantly increased the capacity of their premium gallery platform to accommodate the large-scale exhibition which serves as the major event of The Torch’s program each year.
Founded in 2011, the program provides an important role in supporting Indigenous offenders and ex-offenders to connect with the community through their culture, develop arts networks and reintegrate back into society through new found pathways.
Since its inception over $1,000,000 worth of artworks have been sold and licensed. Purchasers include the National Gallery of Victoria, Museum Victoria, Shepparton Art Museum the Victorian Ombudsman and a range of government, corporate and private buyers in Australia and overseas.
Confined 11 runs online from from 14 May to 7 June 2020. For more information, visit: www.thetorch.org.au for details.
Image: Sunset Cockatoo, 2019 (detail), Stacey, Taungurong/Boon Wurrung people – courtesy of The Torch