Artist Dylan Mooney Discusses South Sea Islander Heritage During Recognition Week
During Australian South Sea Islander Recognition Week, the Australian Museum published an interview with visual artist Dylan Mooney. Mooney, who identifies as Yuwi, Torres Strait Islander, and Australian South Sea Islander, discussed how his heritage influences his artistic practice. He emphasized the importance of preserving stories about the forced labor of Pacific Islanders brought to Queensland and New South Wales between 1860 and 1904. Mooney advocates for including this history in school curricula and greater public recognition. The interview coincided with the 175th anniversary of acknowledging South Sea Islander contributions to Australia.
Key facts
- Between 1860 and 1904, thousands of Pacific Islanders were forcibly brought to Australia to work on plantations.
- Dylan Mooney is a visual artist with Yuwi, Torres Strait Islander, and Australian South Sea Islander heritage.
- Mooney uses his art to share stories about his family history and community experiences.
- He advocates for Australian South Sea Islander history to be taught in schools nationwide.
- The interview was published during Australian South Sea Islander Recognition Week, marking 175 years of their presence.
Entities
Artists
- Dylan Mooney
Institutions
- Australian Museum
Locations
- Australia
- Queensland
- New South Wales
- Mackay
- Vanuatu
- Solomon Islands