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Clifford James (Jim) Ridgeway was a well-respected Aboriginal Elder and one of the founding members of Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery’s Aboriginal Reference Group. A celebration event will be held on Saturday December 6, 2pm to officially open ‘A Tribute: Uncle Jim Ridgeway’, an exhibition that recognises the calibre of his work and acknowledges his contribution to arts and culture.
Uncle Jim was a high achiever – from amateur boxing and award-winning country and western vocals to the visual arts and language study. He was a vibrant figure in the community and greatly admired. He also had a long relationship with the gallery over many years.
In late 1999 Uncle Jim walked into the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery and commented, ‘Where is all the (local) Aboriginal art?’ In early 2000, the Aboriginal Reference Group was established. Uncle Jim was particularly instrumental during those early years, with his wealth of knowledge and understanding of not only art, but also culture and people.
His rich personal history not only informed his art practice, but also his remarkable ability to impart knowledge and skills to the younger generation through artist and community projects, as well as school programs. This gallery project was developed with the generous support of Louise Ridgeway and family and the Aboriginal Reference Group to celebrate this great man’s life. It features painting, pottery, and music.
Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
5 December, 2014 to 1 February, 2015
New South Wales
Uncle Jim Ridgeway, Yango petroglyphs 2001, acrylic on canvas, 39.5 x 120cm
Collection Uncle Jim Ridgeway and Auntie Louise Ridgeway
Courtesy the artist’s estate
