Exhibitions

Historically textiles and craftwork were largely regarded as a form of domestic ‘women’s work’, which refers to the often undervalued, unpaid jobs and chores stereotypically associated with, or assigned to women. However, feminist discourse and the inclusion of textile art into the contemporary arts sphere has led to a new appreciation for textile works made by women

Statistics show almost half (45%) of Australian women have experienced a mental health challenge at some point in their lifetime. Both within and outside of cultural and artistic institutions there are compelling examples of how women have found solace, healing, self-expression and connection through craft and textile-based practices

Spanning over 70 years, She Who Persists shares artworks and stories of women’s mental health experiences and the innovative, creative, and resourceful ways they have engaged with craft and textiles to manage and persevere through adversity and challenges

Including works rarely shown from the Cunningham Dax Collection, She Who Persists showcases the power of tactile activities to provide a means of stress reduction, self-expression and connection with others, which can help to support mental wellbeing amidst challenging times. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the intricate tapestry of women’s experiences with mental health

Exhibiting Artists: Sonia Agosta, Violet Billman, Jessie Brooks-Dowsett, Romy Dwosh, Carol Frieling, Emily Fitzsimons, Edith Agnes Harrington, Barbara Joyce, Chantal Larante, Robyne Latham, Eva Marks, Daniel McKenzie, Carol Maxwell, The Bridge Group and Esmé Sky Walker.

Special Event: Left Write Hook Documentary: Screening and Discussion
Saturday 1 March, 3-6pm
For eight survivors of childhood sexual abuse, a groundbreaking program combining boxing and creative writing, turns into a journey of recovery, transformation and friendship.

As a part of our She Who Persists exhibition programming, join us at The Dax Centre for a special screening of the incredibly moving documentary, Left Write Hook, followed by a panel discussion with the film's director, Shannon Owen, creator of the Left Write Hook program, Donna Lyon, and two program participants, Lauren Wraight and Julie. 

Film Synopsis:
Left Write Hook follows the journey of eight female and gender diverse survivors of childhood sexual abuse, who participate in an innovative recovery program combining the physicality of boxing with the emotional power of creative writing. Gaining a space to release their memories, reclaim their bodies and imagine new lives for themselves.

Through powerful participatory filmmaking and with unprecedented access, this documentary captures an amazing journey of self-discovery, resilience, recovery, transformation, and friendship, as they begin to regain agency and take back their power.

Left Write Hook offers audiences a profound understanding of what it means to be a victim-survivor today, and the power and strength that can come from connection and healing.

Location: The Dax Centre & Kenneth Myer Auditorium, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC.
Tickets: $35

The screening and panel will be followed by refreshments in the gallery. We will also provide refreshments during the film. 

Please be advised that the documentary and panel discussion will involve discussion of lived experience of abuse and lived experience of mental ill health.