CREATE EXCHANGE: Painted Up presents a powerful body of work by Dean Biŋkin Tyson (Quandamooka and Gurang), exploring the cultural, spiritual, and political significance of body painting. Rooted in stories of Country, place, and lore, being “painted up” is both a privilege and an act of cultural embodiment—one that carries deep ancestral knowledge while asserting ongoing resistance.
In this exhibition, Tyson extends the language of body adornment into contemporary visual art. Minimalist and abstract markings move beyond the human form to activate objects, stories, and histories—honouring the traditions of yulu burri ba (people belonging to sand and sea). The works carry forward the markings of his elders with care and respect, offering insight into living cultural practices.
Although relatively recent in his full-time visual arts practice, Tyson brings decades of experience as a dancer, song man, and bidiyamundu (didgeridoo) player. This interdisciplinary background informs a deeply embodied approach to mark-making and storytelling.
This exhibition forms part of CREATE EXCHANGE, a three-year program of artist residencies and activations supported by Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Redland Art Gallery, and partners.
Key Events:
- Opening Event: Sunday 12 April, 11:00am
- Panel Talk: Sunday 31 May, 10:00am
- School Holiday Workshop – Language of Paint: Thursday 16 April, 10:00am
