Not Just a Shadow

نه فقط یک سایه

painting, neon installation, collage and video

uses painting and poetry, realised in neon, to explore the history of Afghan Cameleers in Australia and the complex emotions of memory, displacement, loss and mourning. It draws on the artist’s recent investigations into the forgotten history of Afghan cameleers and their long relationship with the First Nations peoples of Australia. This line of inquiry is underscored by Alavi’s experience as an Afghan-born Hazara man now living in Tarntanya (Adelaide), and the sense of solidarity felt with those who have been similarly displaced by conflict.

For this project, i traveled to Port Augusta, Oodnadatta, Coober Pedy, and Broken Hill.

“Not Just a Shadow” is supported generously by the Arts South Australia Fellowship Grant and Hyphnated Projects.

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Photo by Rosina Possingham