Local Artist Dreams of Africa in New Exhibition
Media Release18February 2013For Immediate Release
Local Artist Dreams of Africa in New Exhibition
His story of leaving Tanzania and starting a new life in Australia
Image 1: Work from Abidi Mohamedi Abdi’s exhibition ‘Dreams of Africa’
Local Niddrie artist,Abidi Mohamedi Abdi, will share memories from his journey from Tanzania, East Africa to Australia in a new exhibition in the application-based community access space, theKeilor East and Strathmore Community Bank® Boadle Hall, at the Incinerator Gallery in March.
Abdi, one of five successful applicants in the hall’s last application round, turned to art as a way to escape his grief of losing his oldest sister, Aisha, to Malaria when he was only 12 years old.
“Losing Aisha was devastating, so I found a way to financially support my family by teaching art to local children in schools around Tanzania.
“Painting helps keep my Tanzanian memories vivid in my mind, and allows me to share my story of leaving my home country to come to Australia,” said Mr Abdi.
Moonee Valley Mayor, Cr. Narelle Sharpe said Dreams of Africa illustrated the importance of the application-based art space.
“It’s great for the local art community to have a free space, with gallery and marketing support that allows the stories of people like Abidi to be shared with us all.
“I encourage you to come down and have a look at this fantastic exhibition by one of our local artists,” said Cr. Sharpe.
Arts and Culture portfolio holder, Cr. Jan Chantry said applications were now open for the next round of artists to exhibit in the Keilor East and Strathmore Community Bank® Boadle Hall.
“Applications are now open on our website at incineratorgallery.com and are open to emerging artists, curators and community groups in all art forms.
“Artists, curators and community groups should all apply to exhibit in the beautiful heritage listed Walter Burley Griffin designed Incinerator Gallery,” said Cr. Chantry.
Applications to the Keilor East and Strathmore Community Bank® Boadle Hall can be submitted on incineratorgallery.com and close on Friday 29 March at 5pm.
Entry to the exhibition is free.
Interviews and photos are available on request.
Exhibition Details
Dreams of Africa
Abidi Mohamedi Abdi
22 March – 28 April
Opening Friday 22March 6pm-8pm
The Incinerator Gallery, 180 Holmes Road, Moonee Ponds, VIC, 3039
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Media Enquiries
Jack Giles
Marketing and Communications Officer
Arts and Culture – Moonee Valley City Council
+61 3 9243 1783 |
The Incinerator Gallery
03 8325 1750 | 180 Holmes Road, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 | incineratorgallery.com.au