Reclaim, Re-Frame and Release

Name: Reclaim, Re-Frame and Release
Start: 2025-07-10T02:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-11-01T08:30:00.000Z
Location: Sydney Observatory

This project challenges the colonial gaze embedded in historical images such as Pacific Island family by Kerry and Co (Object No. 85/1284-1228).

These photographs were often staged and used to commodify Indigenous peoples for colonial audiences.

The names and tribal affiliations of those pictured were rarely recorded, erasing vital cultural and family histories — many of which are still being reclaimed by descendants today.

This collection of community portraits was taken during Matariki celebrations at Sydney Observatory in 2024. This body of work reclaims our photos, reframes and releases them — our way.