General News
21 July, 2023
Elder Aunty Hazel rediscovers photography
In a remarkable turn of events, Elder Aunty Hazel McDonald, a 70-year-old artist hailing from Dimboola, has had three of her captivating photographic pieces selected for the highly anticipated exhibition ‘For Our Elders’, which is set to grace...
In a remarkable turn of events, Elder Aunty Hazel McDonald, a 70-year-old artist hailing from Dimboola, has had three of her captivating photographic pieces selected for the highly anticipated exhibition ‘For Our Elders’, which is set to grace the halls of the Horsham Regional Art Gallery during NAIDOC Week this month.
What makes her achievement astounding is the fact she had not wielded a camera in years.
Aunty Hazel's journey began within the immersive environment of the Goolum Goolum photographic workshop.
It was there that she was presented with a state-of-the-art DSLR camera, serving as a catalyst for her artistic reawakening.
The workshop not only provided technical guidance but also fostered a supportive space for exploration and self-expression.
From that moment, her interest was reignited.
"I was fascinated by the intricate camera settings," Aunty Hazel said.
"Different settings for different effects: I started playing with them.
"They were a great help to me in getting my best shot.
"What the whole workshop experience gave me was learning."
The brainchild of media and communications officer Dylan De Jong, the pilot photographic workshop aimed to explore whether such workshops should become a regular part of the Horsham Goolum Goolum Co-operative's program.
While the workshop attracted a sizeable crowd, it was predominantly comprised of young individuals, with Aunty Hazel being the sole Elder in attendance.
The pilot workshop was overseen by members of the Horsham Camera Club, who had the final say in selecting pieces for the exhibition.
"We were given the first choice," Aunty Hazel said.
"We were tasked with narrowing down our finest photographs to a selection of six, each exhibiting sharpness and clarity, before further refining the collection to a final three."
She added that although each participant used the same camera, most chose to rely on the auto settings.
Aunty Hazel lamented this decision, believing it restricted their creative potential and prevented them experiencing the exhilaration of new discoveries.
While Aunty Hazel had dabbled in photography many years ago, had she never considered herself a professional.
She reminisced about a visit to Melbourne, where she found herself on a beach, compelled to capture the minutiae of her immediate surroundings – pebbles, beach detritus and sand – in exquisite detail.
Now that she has rekindled her love for photography, Aunty Hazel remains captivated by intense portrayals of rustic scenes.
Her explorations around Dimboola have led her to seek out aging farm buildings, though she emphasises the importance of finding the perfect subject.
The nearby river serves as an abundant source of inspiration as well.
She said she'd like to create a book consisting of the different contextual categories of her shots.
"When I take a photograph, I like looking first before questioning whether there is more," she said.
" You're always looking at what's important in the frame."
Aunty Hazel eagerly anticipates venturing into the Dimboola bush this spring to capture the splendor of wildflowers through her lens.
"It's my favorite time," she said.
"The flora in the bush inspires me."
Until September 3 the Horsham Town Hall will be hosting the 'For Our Elders' exhibition.
This event serves as a heartfelt tribute to the profound contributions, boundless love and enduring legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.
The exhibition showcases a captivating collection of artistic works that delve into the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.
Among the notable highlights is Aunty Hazel's series of awe-inspiring photographs capturing the essence of this vibrant community.
Additionally, the exhibition presents a compelling video installation by Tracey Rigney featuring interviews with Elders Aunty Glenis, Uncle Rocky and Uncle Ron, providing unique insights into their lived experiences on Wotjobaluk Country during the 1960s and '70s.
Visitors will be captivated by the power of 33 poignant black-and-white photographs by Matt Dooling, each one capturing the wisdom and resilience of the Elders.
The exhibition also includes photography by community members, produced during collaborative sessions with Mr Dooling.
The integration of traditional art forms is showcased through exquisite paintings on possum skins, masterfully crafted by local community members.
In recognition of the intergenerational bond, the exhibition features a special display of artwork by children.
This multifaceted exhibition transcends boundaries, encompassing various artistic mediums that are testament to the enduring spirit and creativity of First Nations artists.
Attendees can expect to be immersed in a profound celebration of culture, heritage and the invaluable wisdom carried by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.