People of Substance was a collection of site-specific installation works by artist Jason Wing. This exhibition explored the idea that drug and alcohol abuse among Aboriginal people is a by-product of colonization, and addressed the fact that this is often overlooked by mainstream Australia. Rather than reinforce negative stereotypes, Wing aimed to openly address the issue of addiction in Aboriginal Australia and the wider community. This exhibition was curated by Liz Nowell and was presented in partnership with Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Arts Centre.
Visit
Artist Jason Wing and curator Liz Nowell visited Kluge-Ruhe in July of 2012. Wing installed a number of the works in this exhibition in situ and presented several public programs about the exhibition.
“I tend to include three different levels [of identity] for each work I produce: Australian, Chinese and Aboriginal perspectives. I create work both from an outsiders’ and an insiders’ perspective as I am an Aboriginal person with white skin and I am not being fully accepted in either community. My cultures are part of me so it will always be represented in the work.” – JASON WING
About
Jason Wing at Kluge Ruhe Collection, May 2012, Tom CogillJason Wing a Sydney-based artist who strongly identifies with his Chinese and Aboriginal heritage. Wing began as a street artist and has since expanded his practice to incorporate photomedia, installation and painting. Influenced by his bi-cultural upbringing, Wing explores the ongoing challenges that impact his wider community.
The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia acknowledges the Monacan Nation, the traditional owners of the land and waters upon which it stands.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are warned that this website contains the names and images of deceased people.