string theory: Focus on contemporary Australian art explores innovative approaches to fibre and art in a contemporary context. The exhibition brings together Aboriginal artists who work with expanded notions of textile and craft-based tradition, and will present a range of artworks from sculpture to photography, painting to video. Touring from the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and curated by MCA Senior Curator, Glenn Barkley, it features the work of over 30 artists and artist groups from all over Australia.
‘String theory’ is a scientific principle that posits a theory of everything. In this exhibition it implies expansion and connection across time and space, is porous and open-ended, and diverse approaches to the idea of ‘fibre’ or craft-based disciplines. A highlight of the exhibition is a commission by Yirrkala artist Lipaki Marlyaapa who works exclusively with traditional hand-made string. Many of the works in the exhibition have string as an integral material in their making. Others use photography, painting and installation whilst still being grounded in a textile tradition.