The work of Ballarat artist, the late Josh Muir will be celebrated in his hometown from Saturday with the opening of the ‘Forever I Live’ exhibition.
The works have already been seen by many having opened earlier this year at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Fed Square.
His former partner Shanaya Sheridan says it’ll be a proud day.
“It’s bittersweet, it’s such an emotional process but it’s also exciting as well.”
“Not everybody had the chance to get to Melbourne, so I think bringing it home to Josh’s community where he grew up gives a sense of connection to people that knew Josh, that were connected to his art,” Ms. Sheridan said.
The free exhibition emphasises Josh’s love of family and community, drawing on a range of themes including cultural identity, the impacts and legacies of colonisation, mental health, addiction, personal loss and grief.
“We are honoured to be partnering with Koorie Heritage Trust to present this powerful and thought-provoking retrospective of Josh Muir, one the most important artists from Wadawurrung Country,” said Art Gallery of Ballarat Director Louise Tegart.
“This retrospective is a visual documentation of life experiences, told through the prolific, vibrant and sometimes overpowering lens of Josh Muir.”
“As the Gallery becomes a temporary home to these significant works, we aim to ensure Josh Muir’s legacy continues and his art and story is shared for generations to come,” she said.
The exhibition runs until February 2nd 2025.
