Karla Dickens : Locked On

An urgent exhibition by Karla Dickens addresses climate crises linking Indigenous histories of dispossession and invasion through her personal experience, ecofeminism, and provocative visual language.  

A 'lock-on' is a powerful, non-violent tactic used by protesters – using bicycle locks, handcuffs, and other DIY materials – to secure themselves in their place of protest.  Honouring the legacy of non-violent protest, Wiradjuri, Irish and German artist Karla Dickens presents her first solo exhibition in Muloobinba/Newcastle for New Annual, a “lock-on at The Lock-Up”.  

Addressing themes of climate crises and ecofeminism, Locked On interrogates the legacies of colonialism, capitalism and patriarchy, and their effects on post-contact Aboriginal experiences and the natural world. Part homage, part rallying cry, Locked On merges works from Dickens’ extensive repertoire and embodies both a statement on our volatile climate situation and an urgent call to action.

Locked On presents a collection of the artist’s politically charged and deeply personal assemblages, highlighting recent presentations such as Rise and Fall, the 11th Asia Pacific Triennial and Embracing Shadows, alongside new commissions for The Lock-Up.

Seeking to revive and awaken a new generation of environmental warriors, Locked On will be activated over the 10 days of New Annual through climate conversations, art-making workshops and a celebration of the divine feminine.

PROGRAM DETAILS
Arts in the Yard with Karla Dickens
Sat 27 Sep, 10:00am + 11:00am
Join us for a very special artist-led Arts in the Yard, a free art-making workshop for the whole family, hosted by artist Karla Dickens. Aimed at introducing children of all ages to contemporary arts practices in an entertaining and approachable way, enjoy the delight of learning and making and be inspired by the artist's stories as you make your own work of art to take home. Duration 45mins. For more information and to register click here.

In Conversation with Karla Dickens
Sat 27 Sep, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
FREE HOT CHIPS
The tide is rising – join artist Karla Dickens in conversation. Find out how the art world landscape is shifting in the face of climate crisis. Click here for more info and to register.

SENSORY & CONTENT WARNING
The exhibition features dark spaces and steps.

ACCESSIBILITY
The heritage building has a ramped entrance, accessible unisex toilets and accessible parking at the front. The majority of The Lock-Up is accessible to people with mobility issues.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Lock-Up is proudly supported by