“Jundal I”
Kyra Mancktelow
1 Dec → 9 Jan 2022

Kyra Mancktelow, Jundal I', etching using Tarleton fabric. Image courtesy of Agency Projects.
"These prints investigate long-lasting legacies of colonialism, asking questions such as how we remember and how we acknowledge traumatic histories." - Kyra Mancktelow

Jundal (Quandamooka for ‘young') recreates the 1896 uniform worn by First Nations girls who were forcibly removed from their families and placed in Moongalba Mission on Stradbroke Island. "During this time there was a significant story to be told. Before going ahead and creating these uniforms I made sure I sat down with one of my elders and asked for permission to create these uniforms, how I wanted to create them and of course for what reason." 

"The material I used to create these uniforms is called Tarleton, a printmaking fabric that we use to take away colour from an etching plate. I chose this material because it represents that attempt of Assimilation and taking away identity, culture, traditions. Instead of using this material to take away colour, I rub colour back into the uniforms/material and bring back that sense of strong cultural ways traditions knowledges of my people."

In this way, Kyra's work pays tribute to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and their families who were forcibly relocated to missions during the 19th and 20th centuries.

This exhibition is presented in partnership with Agency and supported by the City of Yarra.

Kyra Mancktelow’s multidisciplinary practice investigates legacies of colonialism, posing important questions such as how we remember and acknowledge Indigenous histories. A Quandamooka artist with links to the Mardigan people of Cunnamulla, Kyra’s practice includes printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture – each applying a unique and distinct aesthetic. Kyra works with various materials to share her rich heritage, stories, and traditions to educate audiences and strengthen her connection to Country.