4 May 2014

Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is proud to present its 15th Drawing Wall commission by Indigenous Melbourne-based street artist, Reko Rennie, completed in the Eastbank Centre foyer on Friday 2 May.

Melbourne-based street artist Reko Rennie belongs to the Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi people of NSW and is known for his incisive use of symbols and strong graphic style. Reko has brought his urban sensibility, biting commentary and respect for traditional culture to this new work at SAM. Three hand drawn symbols – the crown, the diamond and the Aboriginal flag – are presented as an emblematic statement about the original royalty of Australia.

‘The crown symbol is both in homage to my graffiti roots and also pays due respect to Jean-Michel Basquiat, but most importantly symbolizes sovereign status. The crown reminds us that Aboriginal people are the original sovereigns of this country,' Reko said.

‘The diamond symbol is emblematic of my connection to the Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi people. This diamond symbol is similar to a family crest; it is a part of me.'

‘The hand-drawn Aboriginal flag in the form of a graffiti tag pays respect to all Aboriginal people, from environments both urban and remote, and anywhere in between.'

Last week saw Reko install this new work, while visitors to SAM and the Eastbank Centre were able to watch Reko work until its completion on Friday afternoon.

‘Reko's work on the Drawing Wall can be appreciated on so many different levels – for its graphic beauty, diverse cultural influences and prescient commentary,' SAM curator Elise Routledge said. ‘We're very proud to be presenting the work of such an exciting and in-demand artist at SAM and invite anyone with interest in street-art, fashion, graphic design or contemporary Aboriginal culture to come and check it out.'

For more information on Reko Rennie, please visit www.rekorennie.com.

‘Regalia' by Reko Rennie for The Drawing Wall #15 will remain on display in the Eastbank Centre foyer until 27 July. It will be officially opened along with the SAM's 2014 Indigenous Ceramic Art Award and Bindi Cole: I Am on Saturday 24 May at 4pm.

Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is proudly provided by Greater Shepparton City Council, located at 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton. SAM is open 7 days from 10am to 4pm (public holidays 1pm to 4pm). For general enquiries and bookings, please contact (03) 5832 9861, email art.museum@shepparton.vic.gov.au, or visit www.sheppartonartmuseum.com.au for more information.