Working out at the art gallery

The Norla Dome is one of Docklands’ most special places and is currently enjoying a renaissance as an art space.

The former gymnasium at the heritage-listed Mission to Seafarers in Flinders St has recently hosted two exhibitions and there are plenty more in the pipeline, thanks to a program sponsored by Bendigo Wealth.

In early March audio artist Jake Carter presented a three-day installation which used the sound of water drops to explore the unusual characteristics of the interior dome.

Known as Decay Time, the work was contextualised within the history and wider environment of Docklands.

Later last month, Melbourne artist Dora Levakis presented an interactive experience comprising many art forms but linked through the concept of “remote place”.  She displayed her own paintings from the Republic of Tuva in southern Russia as well as south-eastern Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.

Dora did not bring any Tuvans with her, but she did bring several indigenous Australians from Numbulwar as part of the experience.

According to Mission to Seafarers CEO Andrea Fleming, Dora brought with her Molly Nundhirribala, Absalom Lalara, Katrina Nundhirribala, their son Kyle and Lance Lawson who has lived with the Numbulwar community for over 40 years.

“Each shared their gifts during their time in Melbourne,” Ms Fleming said.  “Absalom and Katrina produced traditional paintings and, with the hair of their little boy Kyle, Molly wove baskets while Lance recited his wonderfully-illustrated poetry at ‘open mic’ day at the mission on March 17.”

“Dora’s connection to this remote place and people was evident in her paintings, her relationship with her guests and the accompanying video and audio footage that combined to create a wonderfully interactive and educational experience.”

The mission is seeking expressions of interest from artists wishing to exhibit.  Artists are being asked to respond to the themes of spirituality, maritime and cultural diversity.