Cover image of the review
Marlene Gilson, Captain Moonlite, 2017, acrylic on linen. Courtesy of the Art Gallery of Ballarat. Photo: Peter Freund

Marlene Gilson
  • Anna Parlane


2 Feb 2019
Art Gallery of Ballarat 21 Sep 2018 - 3 Feb 2019

At first impression, the current exhibition of paintings by Wathaurung Elder Aunty Marlene Gilson at the Art Gallery of Ballarat is thoroughly charming. Gilson offers an Indigenous perspective on Australian history, using a delicate naïve style that evokes directness and simplicity. On reflection, I found that Gilson's history paintings are more complex than their picture-book appearance suggests. Originally installed as part of the Biennale of Australian Art, the exhibition has enjoyed an extended run as a stand-alone show.

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