to come together as water is the most recent iteration of Blue Assembly—the University of Queensland Art Museum’s multi-year project exploring our relationship to the ocean. Curated by Freja Carmichael, it calls for First Nations sovereignty over waterways.
The exhibition offers expansive and personal experiences of ecological change and its impact. A video work from Jilamara Arts sees 30 artists perform their totems. Carmichael explains, “Through these totemic systems, different parts work together to support ecological balance.” Brian Robertson’s linocut illustrates connections between Country, culture and people. Megan Cope’s oyster-poles draw attention to the cultural and ecological significance of oyster reefs. Lucy Simpson’s installation highlights the vital role of freshwater mussels in culture and water protection. In response to mismanagement of water in the Murray River and its tributaries, Nici Cumpston brings attention to the history of conversations between this water site and her people. Respectively referencing marine plastics and ghost nets, Solomon Booth and artists from Numbulwar Numburindi Arts talk to the increasing pollution in our oceans. Carmichael presents diverse works encoded with cultural memory that play “powerful roles in how we care for water sites across the continent.”
The artworks act as allegories for the kinship systems they come from, echoing the fluidity and expansiveness of water. Carmichael explains, “Kinship systems relate to ways of being in the world, guiding responsibilities for each other, the environment and Country.” The artworks, artists and communities involved reflect wider ideas of reciprocity. The notion of reciprocity can be used to describe water from a First Nations perspective: that which provides, encompasses, holds, carries, and connects.
As a Ngugi woman belonging to the Quandamooka people of the saltwater and freshwater Country around Moreton Bay, Carmichael deeply understands the impacts of water protection. Realised through deep care, to come together as water is a testimony to the power of exhibitions in raising awareness and connecting communities.
to come together as water
University of Queensland Art Museum
Until 6 December.
This article was originally published in the September/October 2025 print edition of Art Guide Australia.
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