The atmosphere was one of pride in achievement, cultural reaffirmation and reconciliation.

Renowned Aboriginal artist and curator, Djon Mundine gave an enjoyable address, pointing out that although this type of exhibition happens much more commonly on the north coast and in other areas across NSW, the newness of this current initiative by South East Arts Region (SEAR) deserves high praise.

Training in lino cutting and printing has been a valuable skills addition for the artists and the results speak for themselves.

Djon also commented on the high quality of the compositional aspects of the works on display, and that the artists had followed his former advice to be authentically themselves, presenting south eastern stories and personal interpretations.

Considering the coldness of the night, the opening was well attended and because of the efforts of SEAR's cultural officers Andrew Gray, Matt Alterator and Loretta Parsley, it was a well organised exhibition.

This is the second time SEAR has auspiced an aboriginal art exhibition that was preceded by training for the artists also at Central Tilba and it has again been seen to be a good model to follow in the future.

The exhibition will also be staged at the Mechanics Institute in Moruya, from Friday, July 10 to Sunday, July 12 inclusive from 10am to 4pm.

SEAR hopes to keep on with the Indigenous Arts Initiative having applied to the Australia Council for further funding for Indigenous Arts Officer Matt Alterator.