Banksia explores the lesser-known history of Australia’s first African settlers and considers migrant stories from a non-colonial perspective.

The works highlight the experience of African men and women who arrived on the First Fleet in 1788 — a colonial history that started long before Atem’s own family arrived from South Sudan in 1997. In fostering a deeper understanding of the experiences of Australia’s first African migrants, Atem interrogates the shaping of national policy, through the centuries, which has directly influenced who is determined to be Australian and non-Australian.

ACS Gold Award - Art, Innovation & Specialised Cinematography.

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