Who Am I : Melaluka

A new exhibition in Darwin is giving recently arrived young migrants and refugees a chance to present their creative work to the public. The show, hosted at the Northern Centre for Contemporary Art, brings together artworks that explore how these young people understand themselves, their cultures, and their place in a new country.

Among the contributors is Kiden Clement, whose vibrant painting appears alongside her in the accompanying photograph. Her work features bold colours and stylised imagery, reflecting her personal story and cultural background. Another exhibiting artist, Laura Quick, also uses her art to navigate questions of identity and belonging.

The exhibition, titled “Who Am I”, focuses on the experiences of young people who have recently settled in Australia after leaving their home countries. Through painting and other visual forms, the artists express the challenges and discoveries that come with adjusting to a new environment while holding onto the memories and traditions that shaped them.

By showcasing these works, the exhibition aims to create a space where the wider Darwin community can connect with the perspectives of young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds. It highlights the role of art as a way to communicate personal histories, celebrate cultural diversity, and build understanding across different communities.