Thread: Connecting Stories and Community is a collaborative exhibition exploring the cultural, social, and historical significance of clothing and adornment as expressions of identity, connection, and belonging. Developed through ongoing dialogue between Logan-based artists, community members, and the National Portrait Gallery, the project brings together historical works and contemporary practices to reflect on shared and evolving cultural narratives.
Featuring works from the National Portrait Gallery’s collection—including 19th-century prints and contemporary photography—the exhibition is presented alongside newly commissioned and evolving works by local artists. Participating artists include Quandamooka artist Kyra Mancktelow, Pamela See (Xue Mei Ling), and Sāmoan/Australian collective Lanatina and Sualauvi Ah Kuoi.
At the centre of the exhibition is a major living artwork: a possum skin cloak led by Kyra Mancktelow in collaboration with her family, Elders, and community. Created over the duration of the exhibition, the cloak embodies storytelling through making, honouring cultural knowledge, connection to Country, and intergenerational exchange.
As part of the public program, Stitching Stories with Kyra Mancktelow invites audiences into this process. On Saturday 18 April from 1–3pm, visitors can join Mancktelow and collaborators in the gallery to share stories, reflect, and contribute to a communal making environment. Participants are encouraged to bring along their own small sewing, stitching, or jewellery-making projects.
Grounded in deep listening and co-creation, Thread offers a powerful model for collaborative practice, fostering cross-cultural understanding and highlighting the richness of Logan’s diverse community. Following its Brisbane presentation, the exhibition will travel to the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra.
Image: James Tylor, Craig Tuffin and Dr Elisa deCourcy, James, Rebecca and Sam Mapu, 2021, 1/4 plate daguerreotype in a leather case lined with Nantu Watpa Grey Kangaroo fur, edition 1/1. Purchased 2022 © Craig Tuffin and Dr Elisa deCourcy. James Tylor/Copyright Agency, 2026
