Sydney: Campbelltown Arts Centre presents their latest exhibition ‘in every room’, an exhibition of new commissions and existing works by leading contemporary artists from around Australia: Lara Chamas, Jagath Dheerasekara, Kuba Dorabialski, Roberta Joy Rich, Sancintya Mohini Simpson, and Curtis Taylor.

The exhibition draws on each artist’s personal and communal histories, pointing to tragic political projects from around the world. In doing so, they invite an unravelling of contemporary complicities, delicately tracing connections between past and current systems of control and pulling into focus timely questions around the role of the artist and creative practice in the current moment.

Through their work, complex histories confront us, daring us to review our own positions and paths — individually and collectively.

In a major new multi-channel video installation, ‘Gaja: a story of the elephant’, local artist Jagath Dheerasekara sheds light on the impact of colonisation on Sri Lanka through the harrowingly declining numbers of the Sri Lankan elephant. This large-scale installation combines performance with screen-printed and embroidered garments. In this vibrant space, Jagath invites us into a world of colour and joy — clothing a morbid reality in playful disguise.

‘Field Recording’, a new film by Sydney-based artist Kuba Dorabialski, engages with the historical events of the siege of Sarajevo. Filmed in and around the city of Sarajevo, Dorabialski asks questions that are important for us to consider in heightened moments of conflict: Who has the right and who has the responsibility to tell the story?

Melbourne-based Roberta Joy Rich has created a new video and sound installation which follows the life of Khoikhoi Chief David Stuurman, telling a largely untold story of African resilience and tenacity. Since discovering he was sentenced and subsequently banished upon the Brampton, the artist has traced his historical footnotes — both astounded and fascinated by his presence in convict-era, nation-state Australia. The work encourages audiences to honour the lives and histories of those who fought and continue to fight for justice.

‘in every room’ also centres a space for children and young people which encourages engagement with relevant stories, histories, and provocations. The project is curated by Eddie Abd, Isabelle Morgan, and Emily Rolfe.

“We’re proud to have such an incredible exhibition showing here in Campbelltown. ‘in every room’ presents our residents with an opportunity to experience exceptional work close to home and strengthens our presence as a thriving destination for the arts.”
– Mayor of Campbelltown, Darcy Lound

“‘in every room’ boldly interrogates both personal and collective histories, questioning how they shape the world we inhabit. With a mix of new and existing works, each artist brings a unique perspective. Campbelltown Arts Centre invites audiences to reflect on the experiences that influence their identities, beliefs and ways of seeing.”
– Mouna Zaylah, Director, Campbelltown Arts Centre

Dates

• Exhibition: 5 July – 14 September 2025

• Artist Talks: Saturday 5 July, 4:00 – 5:00 PM

• Opening Event: Saturday 5 July, 5:00 – 7:00 PM

Links

• Website

Available for Interview

• Interviews upon request

Credits

Located on Dharawal Land, Campbelltown Arts Centre is proudly owned by the people of Campbelltown and is a cultural facility of Campbelltown City Council. Campbelltown Arts Centre is assisted by the NSW Government through Create NSW, and also receives support from the Neilson Foundation and the Packer Family Foundation.

Jagath Dheerasekara, ‘Gaja: a story of the elephant’ has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

Kuba Dorabialski, ‘Field Recording’ has been assisted by Create NSW.

About Campbelltown Arts Centre

Located in the heart of South West Sydney on Dharawal Land, Campbelltown Arts Centre works with artists, communities and partners to develop and present new works that tell relevant stories, challenge perceptions, and share diverse perspectives.

We respect and embrace diverse cultural practices and knowledge, take risks and inspire experimentation. Committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, we embed skills development, facilitate creative pathways and encourage bold and innovative work.

We advocate for artists and the creative sector in Western Sydney, fostering contemporary creative practices through multidisciplinary programs. By embedding creativity in unexpected spaces, we engage with audiences and communities — locally, nationally, and internationally.