The exhibition will feature 111 original artworks at Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute from April 15 until June 18.
Rainbow Dreamz is a deeply personal and vulnerable exploration of overcoming, self-discovery and finding a state of inner peace. The 111 artworks created by the 22-year-old Arabana and Kokatha artist for this exhibition are like a journal on canvas, documenting Mali’s journey of transforming trauma and negativity into one of acceptance, self-love, and understanding. Through a spectrum of colour, emotions, thoughts, and moments, each painted canvas is unique and individual in its own way, whilst they work together harmoniously to create a beautiful anthology of rainbow dreams.
The opening night of the exhibition will feature some of Adelaide’s Indigenous musical talent with live performances by Katie Aspel, Sonz of Serpent, and DJ Phoenixx. Additionally, in the weeks leading up to the exhibition, Mali will transform the facade of Tandanya with a bright rainbow mural to match the dreamscape that she is creating inside.
Anyone who has spent time on Kaurna Land over the summer is likely to recognise Mali’s bright and playful style after her artwork ‘A Whimsical World’ was the winner of the 2022 Adelaide Fringe poster competition. Mali is proud to be the first Aboriginal poster artist for the Adelaide Fringe in its 62-year history – with her work featured throughout the city, suburbs and regions of South Australia on trams, buses and even limited-edition beer cans as part of the global festival campaign.
On the announcement of her debut solo exhibition, Mali Isabel says:
“I have poured my entire heart and soul into this exhibition – physically through my art practice over the past several months, and mentally for many years now – so no words can describe how it feels to see my rainbow dreams come to life!”
She continues:
“I want it to make everyone feel a sense of harmony and hopefulness when they walk into my rainbow dreamscape, which shows a true insight into my mind and my inner journey of self-discovery. I am truly honoured to share this experience with everyone that has been following my journey.”
Since graduating from a Bachelor of Arts in Primary Education from Flinders University in 2020, Mali has been drawing inspiration from the land around her to create contemporary dot paintings using all colours of the rainbow to spread her message of positivity and equality. Her goal is to embed the understanding that we are all human and deserve to be treated with equal respect and kindness.
‘Rainbow Dreamz’ is featuring at Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute
from 15 April until 18 June.
Entry is $33 for adults, $22 for community and concession, and free for children under 12.