General News
27 June, 2024
From remanded to in demand
The artwork of Wotjobaluk/Gunaikurnai man Thomas Marks is colourful and in increasing demand, featuring on the sides of a Melbourne tram and used on a recent poster in Horsham's campaign against domestic violence.
Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett even has one of Marks’ works hanging on his wall, and the Koori artist has been recognised with two NAIDOC art awards.
From the Stolen Generation, Marks said he lived in foster homes with non-Indigenous families while growing up, but it wasn't until he served a stint in Ravenhall Correctional Centre that he picked up a brush.
Through the Torch Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community Program, Marks was handed the art supplies which allowed him to share his story, his culture and his lived experience.
The program started 12 years ago and encourages First Nation people in prison to create artwork which is then sold, with the proceeds held in trust until their release.
An annual exhibition, Confined, is held during Reconciliation Week each year showcases pieces from prisoners.
Marks now resides in Ballarat but regularly returns to the Wimmera where his father Brian Marks grew up and where other close relatives still live.
He recently visited in order to organise displaying his artwork at Natimuk's Goat Gallery as part of a show titled Now More Than Ever, with Dimboola artist Gail Harradine.
The exhibition is in its last week, so if you haven't seen it yet, time is running out.