Cairns Regional Gallery Year of the Monkey Exhibition

A few years ago, I had begun to develop the concept for this exhibition with Mary Low. We wanted to bring Chinese New Year fever to Cairns and create an interactive exhibition for all ages, both educational and fun whilst being great for photo opportunities. This installation includes large canvas paintings, collaborative illustrations and a narrative that explains the characteristics of each zodiac animal and the coming fortunes. Enjoy the Chinese kitchen, dressing up, colossal colouring in wall and a general feel for the traditional Chinese New Year celebrations. Let the Monkey King from the 16th century novel, Journey to the West or 70's classic television series, Monkey, lead you through the story of The Great Race. 

My involvement with CADCAI (Cairns and District Chinese Association Inc.) came about when I took my son Noah to see Chinese Lion Dancing when he was 6 years old. He was immediately interested in becoming a member of the lion team and eventually became one. Over the years I have been to China with CADCAI and studied martial arts alongside Noah whilst letting myself become immersed within the culture. Hong Kong is now by far my favourite holiday destinations and I have become well educated when it comes to Lion Dancing history. 

Thank you to everyone that attended the opening to the exhibition, I hope you enjoyed it!

I wish a very wonderful and prosperous new year to you all,

Gong Xi Fa Cai!