Future Dreaming – visions of the future is an exhibition of artworks created by First Nations artists incarcerated in Victorian prisons across 2023. The Torch has invited each artist to create a new artwork inspired by their interpretations of “Future Dreaming”.
Many artists dream of returning to home and to their kids, of making amends and living a new life beyond the prison walls. Over ten artists explored the Voice and what it meant to them, and several speak of wanting to reconnect to Culture and Country when they get out, and to learn from their Elders.
As our inaugural exhibition in our new Carlton gallery space, this exhibition gives artists an avenue to explore the future they see for themselves, their community, their Country. Over 250 participants across 14 Victorian correctional facilities embraced this challenge.
First Nations Australians make up less than 3% of the Australian adult population but represent over 30% of the national adult prison population. First Nations men are 15 times more likely to go to prison than non-First Nations men and First Nations women are 21 times more likely to go to prison than non-First Nations women.
As always, works will also be available to view and purchase online from 6.00pm on Thursday 2nd November 2023.
All artworks will be priced between $230 – $330. The Torch takes no commission on sales, meaning that 100% of the sale price, after a $30 canvas stretching cost, goes directly to the artist.
Over 250 artworks will be showcased representing First Nations cultural groups from all across Australia. The exhibition features first-time painters alongside seasoned artists who have works held in prominent public collections. Future Dreaming – visions of the future presents a unique opportunity to support a participant’s first sale, or to acquire an affordable artwork from some of The Torch’s most seasoned artists.
We welcome you to view the exhibition online or from our new premises in Carlton:
After the exhibition closes on Thursday November 23rd artworks can be shipped to you via Australia Post or you can pick them up from our Carlton gallery on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 1 to 5pm.
