Fluid Flax – an exhibition that featured six artists who identify as queer and or non-binary, working with crafts such as crochet, embroidery, knitting, quilting and textiles – has won NERAM a major accolade at the 2024 IMAGinE Awards.
This prestigious annual event that took place on November 21 recognises the exceptional achievements of cultural institutions and individuals, with this year’s winners showcasing outstanding excellence in exhibitions, community engagement, and accessibility initiatives.
NERAM won the award for Fluid Flax in the Exhibitions (medium organisation) category, triumphing over 18 other nominations.
“Using techniques historically considered ‘women’s work’, the artists in Fluid Flax claimed space within their mediums and subvert heteronormative assumptions,” said NERAM director Rachael Parsons.
“The exhibition interrogated how these craft techniques are used as explorations of identity, politics, nostalgia, and modes of storytelling and was presented as part of the 2023 Winter Blooming Festival.
“We were thrilled that Fluid Flax won at these prestigious awards – what a great way to end what has been a stellar year at NERAM.
“I want to thank and congratulate to all the artists – Liam Benson, Phil Ferguson, Blake Griffiths, Trevor Smith, Kate Just, Dennis Golding and Troy-Anthony Baylis – who were part of the exhibition and to the NERAM team.”
Fluid Flax was conceived and curated by Belinda Hungerford, NERAM’s manager exhibitions and curatorial.
“It was lovely to be in Sydney for the 2024 IMAGinE Awards and be able to celebrate with Fluid Flax artist Liam Benson,” said Ms Hungerford.
The IMAGinE Awards provide an essential platform to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and dedication of museums, galleries, and Aboriginal cultural centres.
This year’s exhibition categories were noted for innovative approaches to curation, featuring projects that amplified historically marginalised voices and brought new perspectives to audiences statewide. These efforts exemplify the sector’s commitment to fostering community connections and making the arts accessible to all.
“The IMAGinE Awards continue to celebrate and champion the extraordinary efforts of our cultural sector. The work recognised this year reflects an inspiring commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and community impact, strengthening the cultural landscape of New South Wales and enriching the lives of our communities.” said Brett Adlington, CEO of Museums & Galleries of NSW.
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