Celebrating refugee art and culture at Hobart Town Hall

Published on 13 June 2024

The City of Hobart, in partnership with the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania, Citizen Tasmania, Australian Red Cross, and the Salvation Army, is proud to present a unique exhibition showcasing the talents and cultural expressions of Tasmanians from diverse refugee backgrounds.

This special evening will highlight artwork and cultural expressions from both recently arrived refugees and those who now call Tasmania home.

The event will feature a community celebration and an exhibition launch, inviting everyone from refugee backgrounds to participate through various forms of art, including painting, drawing, embroidery, knitting, performance, singing, poetry, dance, and traditional clothing.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said this was an important event and fits in ideally with the City of Hobart’s winter campaign City of Warm Hearts and Cool Adventures, aimed at getting locals out and about during the cooler months while also supporting those helping others in our community.

"This exhibition is a testament to the resilience and creativity of our refugee community,” Cr Reynolds said.

“It is a celebration of their contributions to our cultural tapestry and an opportunity for all the people of Hobart to come together and appreciate the diverse talents within our community."

Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Dr Gillian Long said: “Many MRC Tas programs focus on exploring creativity as a powerful means of expression and sharing of culture and experience. “

We see first-hand how Tasmanians from refugee backgrounds embrace creative expression and take pride in being able to showcase art, culture and crafts from their cultures.

“We welcome the opportunity to celebrate their stories of freedom and family through our second annual Refugee Week art exhibition.”

Welcoming and Inclusive City Portfolio Chair Cr Dr Zelinda Sherlock echoed these sentiments.

"The City of Hobart is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong,” Cr Dr Sherlock said.

“This event not only showcases the incredible skills and cultural heritage of our refugee residents but also reinforces our dedication to creating a welcoming community for all."

Over the past year, global conflicts have forced an increasing number of people to flee their homelands in search of safety.

In response, the City of Hobart, alongside its event partners, has worked to ensure humanitarian arrivals feel welcomed and included in Tasmania.

A series of art workshops, run by the various partner organisations and held in the lead-up to the exhibition, provided participants with a supportive environment to express themselves, connect with others, and experience a sense of belonging.

Mexican artist Karla Salgado led the MRC Tas art workshops, working with the youth team and women’s group on a number of creative projects, including painting, embroidery and collaborative artworks.

Mr Salgado said it was the process of joint creation that made these workshops so special.

“I believe in the community and strength of those of us who migrate as we share the possibility to create art in different languages and cultures,” Mr Salgado said.

The exhibition will take place at the Hobart Town Hall on Macquarie Street on Thursday, 13 June, from 5pm to 7pm, with official proceedings beginning at 5.10pm.

All members of the community are encouraged to attend and celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Tasmanians from refugee backgrounds.