NO SOUVENIRS
NO SOUVENIRS is a thought-provoking exhibition that rejects the commodification and tourist gaze often imposed on Blak art.
Showcasing the transformative works of selected emerging artists from a six-month studio residency (Blak Camp and Blak Creatives Print Club residency) this exhibition, curated by Libby Harward and mentored by Darren Blackman, moves beyond the canvas, offering fresh perspectives and untold stories.
NO SOUVENIRS invites you to step into a space of experimentation, creativity, resistance, and reclamation – an experience that’s visually stunning, politically challenging, and emotionally and intellectually engaging.
Featuring experimental works that take the artists off the canvas into new mediums like textiles and interdisciplinary practices, the show amplifies the power of authentic storytelling and sovereignty, unsettling the colonial lens.
NO SOUVENIRS is a celebration of artistic empowerment, where Blak voices define space, material, and story. Break free with these emerging First Nations artists from market-driven limitations to explore new horizons in their work.
Creative Team
- Libby Harward (Quandamooka) – Contemporary Conceptual Artist and Curator
- Darren Blackman (Gureng Gureng, Gangalu, South Sea Islander) – Contemporary Artist and Studio Mentor
- Lexie Abel (Wiradjuri) – Exhibiting Artist
- Clea North (Gunggari, Mithaka) – Exhibiting Artist
- Bianca Bond (Kabi Kabi) – Exhibiting Artist
- Dimitie Smith (Wiradjuri) – Exhibiting Artist
- Brenda Mau (Mandubarra, Torres Strait Islander, Kalkadoon) – Exhibiting Artist
- Rachel Bywaters (Gamilaroi) – Exhibiting Artist
Libby Harward
Libby leads the curatorial vision of the exhibition, drawing on her expertise in conceptual and site-specific practices. Libby’s focus is on decolonial narratives, creating space for emerging Black artists to challenge market-driven constraints and redefine creative boundaries.
Darren Blackman
Darren guided the emerging artists through the residency with hands-on mentorship. Darren’s expertise lies in blending traditional and contemporary methods, fostering innovative artistic practices, and empowering artists to push beyond their comfort zones.
Partners
NO SOUVENIRS was curated and commissioned for Horizon 2025 through Sunshine Coast Council's MadeSC program and presented in partnership with The Old Ambulance Station.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
This visual exhibition is presented in the Old Ambo, indoor gallery space. Audience members can choose the duration of their experience, we recommend allowing 30 – 45 minutes.
Seating is not provided, however there is seating nearby. Refreshments are available nearby.
This experience is suitable for all ages, it is inspirational, insightful, meaningful and culturally significant.
Wheelchair Accessibility
This venue is wheelchair accessible.
Level Access
Ramp access available.
Bathroom Access
Black Box Theatre, The Old Ambulance Station has bathrooms available.
Low Sensory Performance
The matinee performance on Friday 9 May will be low sensory, with no strobe or loud noises.
Any other access requirements
We welcome all audiences to Horizon and strive to make every event and performance as accessible as possible.
We are always open to discussing your individual requirements to assist wherever possible. If you’d like to speak to someone about your access requirements, please contact us during business hours at (07) 5475 7272 or [email protected].
Companion Cards
Horizon is proud to support the Companion Card program. Companion Card holders are eligible for a second ticket at no cost for their companion.
To access a complimentary companion ticket, please contact our team via [email protected].
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that the exhibition may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.
By car
If you are travelling by car – All day parking is available on William Street. Limited all day parking is also available in the car park on the corner of Sydney and Howard Streets. Limited 2 & 3 hour parking is available on Howard, Sydney and Maud Streets.
By foot
Old Ambo is an 8 minute walk from Nambour train station.