Key Points
- Ugnayang Sining at Pamana (USAP) Collective, a group dedicated to promoting Filipino-Australian art and culture, launched the art exhibition themed "Beyond the South Seas" in South Australia.
- The goal of the exhibition is to showcase the talent of Filipino migrants who have been separated from their homeland.
- Michelle Kenney, a photographer and one of the USAP artists, shares their story on making the awaited exhibition possible.
What do you do when you feel nostalgic? Do you look at old photos or revisit places that are close to home?
For the Filipino arts group Ugnayang Sining at Pamana Collective (USAP) based in South Australia, their craft bridges identity, nostalgia, and the ocean leading to the "Beyond the South Seas". An exhibition that gives a traditional imagery of the South Seas, inviting viewers to explore the journey of Filipino-Australian experiences.
"Beyond the South Seas" gives a traditional imagery of the South Seas, inviting viewers to explore the journey of Filipino-Australian experiences. Source: Michelle Kenney
SA's arts scene has said to be unique and thriving like other states and territories in Australia, according to the South Australia website. You will find over 45,000 works and an evolving Australian and international exhibitions.
For photographer and USAP artist Michelle Kenney, the state has a lot to offer just like their art exhibition that embarks on a self-discovery quest.
"This exhibition points a lot of questions about our concepts of home . . . how do we adjust from a country different from our homeland?"
"Beyond the South Seas explores our identity and nostalgia through Filipino-Australian art expression," she said.
LISTEN TO
‘What is our concept of home and what do we do while away?’: USAP explores nostalgia in new exhibition
SBS Filipino
16/02/202509:39
Uplifting arts appreciation
With the works of her co-artists Althier Alianza, Claire Pasion, Gale Dy, Lourdes Blinco, Mark Dy, Peter Francisco, Shine Eisin Mausisa, and visionary artist and philanthropist Ana Koch, the gallery will showcase various artistic expressions, including painting, photography, and mixed media.
The artists provide a wave into their personal and cultural stories, memories of childhood summers, family traditions, and the influence of water into their lives.
"Beyond the South Seas" will showcase various artistic expressions, including painting, photography, and mixed media. Source: Michelle Kenney
"We would like to invite the viewers to explore the intricate tapestry of this experience. Why are we called by the ocean? What memories do we have with it?", she added.
USAP's creative force
The Adelaide-based arts collective provides support and connection for Filipino migrants, Australians of Filipino descent and all types of creatives.
You will land to people who are meant for you. Our creative force were so dynamic and impactful that we stayed this long.Michelle Kenney on being a part of Filipino arts group USAP
Their visual journey that celebrates the diversity of the human spirit as reflected in the face of the ocean runs until March 15 at Gallery M, Marion Cultural Centre.
