Multidisciplinary artist Naomi Hobson set the Contemporary art world aflame with her incredible series 'Adolescent Wonderland' which went on to be acquired by every major museum in Australia and exhibited across the world including London, Singapore and Morocco. Her follow up series 'Life on the River' is no exception with its intimate capture of the vibrant river culture and the people of Coen, a dynamic and incredible showcase of her work as a photographer.
These photographs represent a true picture of our way of life. They are intimate pictures of river life and my connection to Country. Living on the river is part of our daily existence and defines who we are as people from Coen, how we look and how we live. The river is spiritually important to us. It represents our history. Our people are buried along the river and there are special birthing sites. The river has fed us for thousands of years - we have laid on the sandbanks and looked at the same star constellations as our ancestors. For us – it’s life. This series of photographs tells our river story. -Naomi Hobson, 2024
These playful and captivating images depict the people of Coen amongst the thriving wildlife with bugs, birds, insects interacting with each other; each photograph capturing moments with an honesty that displays kinship between artist and subject.
'Life on the River' has just opened at Cairns Art Gallery and will be on display until 1 September 2024. Not to be missed!
