In conversation with Whadjuk Balladong Wilman Yorga, Carrolup Curator JCG, Zali Morgan
Once Known Truth Talks invite not only remembrance, but reckoning – creating a space where shared history can be discussed honestly, and where truth supports healing, education, and ongoing cultural continuity.
In this talk, Zali Morgan considers how truth can be held and communicated through art, exhibition-making, and institutional responsibility. For many years, First Nations culture, stories and art have been told and interpreted through Western and anthropological lenses, resulting in forms of othering that misrepresent lived realities and cultural knowledge.
From a curatorial perspective, truth-telling requires a shift away from extractive and authoritative narratives, toward practices grounded in cultural accountability, relationality, and listening. Drawing on her work with the Carrolup Collection, Zali explores how curators can create space for First Nations voices to lead. Truth in art is not singular or static; it is lived, layered, and ongoing, shaped by Country, community, and lived experience.
Once Known at the Old Perth Boys’ School presents reproductions of the delicate and culturally significant artworks created by Aboriginal children forcibly taken from their families and detained at the Carrolup Native Settlement in the 1940s. Lost overseas for over 60 years, these artworks came home to Noongar Boodja, providing the opportunity for sharing truth, healing, and reconciliation.
Event Details
Thursday 23 April 2026
10am – 11am
Free event, open to the public.
Location: Once Known at Old Perth Boys’ School; Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace, Perth
Photography
This event may be photographed and/or videoed, and images may be used for promotional and marketing purposes, including social media. If you do not wish to be photographed or videoed, please notify staff.
Accessibility
Everyone is welcome. Plan your visit to Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace.
Header Image: Once Known at Curtin 139 St George’s Terrace. Photo by Marnie Richardson.
Proudly part of the Lotterywest Boorloo Heritage Festival: 1 April – 30 April.
