When I first heard about Brian Robinson's Multiverse exhibition at the Newcastle Art Gallery, I was immediately intrigued by the concept and the artist's unique approach to storytelling. This exhibition is a testament to Robinson's ability to weave together diverse elements of culture, history, and imagination, creating a captivating and thought-provoking experience.
A World of Cultural Fusion
At the core of Robinson's artistic practice is his Torres Strait Islander heritage, which he describes as the lens through which he views the world. This perspective is evident in his works, where he seamlessly blends cultural knowledge, mythology, and science fiction. Robinson's art becomes a vessel, carrying and preserving cultural narratives for future generations.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way Robinson integrates various influences without creating a chaotic blend. Instead, he orchestrates a harmonious conversation between different belief systems and references. Indigenous storytelling coexists with biblical narratives, scientific discoveries find a place alongside mythology, and pop culture icons share the stage with ancestral wisdom.
Building Worlds and Expanding Horizons
The exhibition invites visitors to step into Robinson's imaginative universe, a multiverse where the boundaries between past and future, local and global, sacred and playful, are fluid. Through his monumental linocuts, vinyl-cuts, sculptures, and immersive digital experiences, Robinson expands the possibilities of storytelling.
As Robinson himself puts it, his practice has evolved from creating individual artworks to building entire worlds. Each piece becomes a dimension within a cultural constellation, connected and interrelated. This approach is beautifully captured in the exhibition's title, Multiverse, which reflects the expansive nature of Robinson's vision.
Newcastle Art Gallery's Cultural Renaissance
Multiverse is not just a showcase of Robinson's talent; it also marks a significant milestone for the Newcastle Art Gallery. The gallery, which reopened after a major expansion, has seen an incredible response, welcoming visitors from all over the world.
The exhibition is part of a broader vision for the gallery to be locally rooted while engaging nationally and globally. Alongside Multiverse, visitors can explore other thought-provoking exhibitions, such as Tiyan Baker's Mouth Mnemonica and The Mordant Family Gift, which collectively offer a diverse and enriching cultural experience.
A Bright Future for Newcastle's Cultural Landscape
Looking ahead, the gallery's 2026 program promises more exciting exhibitions, including showcases by renowned artists Angela Tiatia and Anh Do. These exhibitions reflect the gallery's commitment to presenting contemporary art that resonates with both local and international audiences.
Newcastle Art Gallery's collection, valued at $145 million, is a testament to its ambition and success in becoming a major cultural destination. As Lauretta Morton OAM, the gallery's director, puts it, the goal is to tell ambitious stories that are relevant and connected to the local community, while also providing open access to global art perspectives.
In my opinion, Brian Robinson's Multiverse is a must-see exhibition, offering a unique and enriching cultural experience. It showcases the power of art to bridge cultures, inspire, and open up new worlds of imagination and understanding.
