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Explore artworks inspired by the practices of Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi artist Michael Riley
Explore artworks inspired by the practices of Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi artist Michael Riley
Student visual arts resource developed by The Arts Unit in collaboration with the Art Gallery of New South Wales
Years 5 and 6 visual arts
What will I learn?
What will I learn?
In lesson 1 you will explore symbolism.
Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi artist Michael Riley was inspired by his love for country and community. He often used symbols to communicate ideas about his Aboriginal identity and Australian history.
Throughout this lesson you will:
Shoot your own photographic series that reflects your culture, childhood or favourite memories.
Construct your own photographic studio.
Michael RileyUntitled from the series Flyblown, 1998pigment print81.9 x 107.8 cm© Michael Riley Foundation
Before you begin
Before you begin
You will need:
a large sheet of white paper (A1 size is ideal)
scissors and sticky tape
personal objects to be photographed
a small table.
- Watch
Let’s take a closer look at how Michael Riley’s photography has been inspired by his love for country and community.
The artworks we will look at now are based on the use of symbols.
Watch the video Home program: Michael Riley - Country and answer the following questions:
What is a symbol?
Look carefully at Untitled. How was Michael positioned to frame the field of grass in this way?
How has Michael used symbolism and colour to speak to his Christian upbringing and the effects of Christianity on Australia’s Indigenous culture and people?
How has Michael used symbolism to highlight how environmental damage affects Indigenous culture and connections to country?
Michael RileyUntitled from the series Flyblown, 1998pigment print81.9 x 107.8 cm© Michael Riley Foundation
Home program: Michael Riley – Country
Duration: 04:27Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this video may contain images of, and written reference to, people who have passed away.
2. Construct
2. Construct
Push the table up against a wall.
Tape the top of the paper to the wall and let the bottom roll across the table.
Create a curve in the paper where the wall meets the table.
3. Create
3. Create
Place a single object on the paper.
Compose your photograph.
Photograph your object.
Repeat with remaining objects.
Brainstorm places or environments related to your objects.
Photograph each of these places or environments.
Experiment with framing and composition.
Print your object and landscape photographs.
Cut out each of your printed objects.
Collage each object onto the related landscape photograph.
Michael RileyUntitled from the series Flyblown, 1998pigment print81.9 x 107.8 cm© Michael Riley Foundation
Third-party content attributions
Third-party content attributions
Untitled from the series Flyblown, © Michael Riley Foundation, 1998, reproduced and communicated with permission.
Untitled from the series Flyblown, © Michael Riley Foundation, 1998, reproduced and communicated with permission.
Untitled from the series Flyblown, © Michael Riley Foundation, 1998, reproduced and communicated with permission.
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