Part of the Daring Series, in partnership with Curtin University Advancement
Join JCG Director, Prof Susanna Castleden, for a guided tour of the exhibition Christopher Pease: Terra Nullius, which explores themes of sovereignty, resilience, and enduring connection to Country. The exhibition invokes the legal fiction of terra nullius – the doctrine used by British colonisers to claim Australia as “nobody’s land,” – denying the existence of Aboriginal societies with complex laws, cultures, and custodianship of Country. For Aboriginal Australians, terra nullius sanctioned dispossession, cultural erasure, and generations of structural injustice. Pease employs the term ironically, exposing its violence and absurdity through layered painterly interventions.
Following the tour, Curtin’s Senior Advisor for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, Sheldon Smith, will lead a facilitated session on advocacy and its many forms, with small breakout discussions hosted by university and community leaders across key social justice areas.
Dare to Advocate is designed as a space where art, reflection and conversation come together to help explore real-world social justice challenges, and consider ways to engage that feel both meaningful and sustainable. When the issues are complex and require curiosity, courage and meaningful action, it is not always clear how we can create change in the areas we are deeply passionate about. These conversations offer a practical opportunity to connect with others, to reflect on shared challenges, and to explore what advocacy could look like in action. Participants will leave with a clearer sense of direction, and a simple guide to help them stay involved in ways that align with their values, capacity and interests.
This experience may resonate with those drawn to art and storytelling, those already advocating for change, and those looking for ways to take the next step.
The Daring Series is part of the Because They Dare Annual Appeal.
Event Details
Thursday 18 June 2026
4:30pm – 6:30pm
Free event
Light refreshments provided.
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 at event registration.
Accessibility
Everyone is welcome at the John Curtin Gallery. Plan your visit to the John Curtin Gallery.
Header image: Christopher Pease, Terra Nullius, 2022, oil on linen, 150 x 228 cm. Collection of Tim Ungar. Courtesy of the artist and Gallerysmith. Photography by Andrew Curtis.
