Big congratulations to local artist, Asma d. Mather, a finalist in the upcoming Hadley's Art Prize!

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'Presently based in Broken Hill on Wilyakali land, Mather’s practice approaches meeting points between the tangible and intangible. Her practice is research and walking based. Her latest solo exhibition (Broken Hill Regional Gallery November 20) looked at the concept of the intermediate zone, through the writings of Ibn al-‘Arabi and his discussion of the isthmus (barzakh). One focus of this work was water and the agency of perception. It was developed during the urgency of drought and water mismanagement surrounding the darling barka river and Menindee lakes. It relied upon many knowledges, most notably with Uncle Badger Bates, Barkandji knowledge bearer and F.A.Ali Elsenossi, North African Sufi teacher. The co-incidence of these two wisdoms is echoed in in the history of the Afghan cameleers in the region. ⁠

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Mather has a background in cultural theory (BA UMelb), Fine Art and Art, Design and Environment (MADE, UTAS). The wilderness studies at the University of Tasmania facilitated by Raymond Arnold, were pivotal in developing thought around the purpose of art in transcribing landscape and Being. ⁠

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She has participated in a numerous solo and group shows, prizes, grants, and has recently been selected for Cementa Regional artists program and Artlands Launceston. Her work is held in national and international private collections.'

Hadley Art Prize

(photo by Tara Callaghan)