Sharing the National Collection: Devonport to display thought-provoking video art

A digital reimagining of an 1842 Tasmanian landscape painting will be displayed at the Devonport Regional Gallery as part of the Albanese Labor Government’s Sharing the National Collection program.

Touching other people’s butterflies by Joan Ross is a 2 minute 30 second digital adaptation animating the painting Distant View of Hobart (1825) by Joseph Lycett. 

Joan’s handmade and collaged effects meld colonial and contemporary periods to examine themes of possession, dispossession and ownership in the Australian landscape. 

On display from the 6th of December, the piece will remain at Devonport for two years. It will be projected on a screen outside of the gallery freely available for everyone visiting the area. 

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the loan showed the diversity of artworks being shared through the initiative.

“Joan Ross’ video art shows the enormous diversity of our National Collection. We’ve seen all sorts of pieces loaned from paintings to sculpture, furniture and jewellery.

“This unique loan is specific to the area, encouraging viewers to examine their surroundings and consider the many different human perspectives that exist within the landscape.

“The National Collection holds over 155,000 artworks of significant cultural value that have mostly remained in storage. Our program is making more of these works available for communities across Australia.”

National Gallery Director, Dr Nick Mitzevich, said Australia’s national collection held many significant works of art. 

“We believe sharing art across Australia can be transformative for regional and suburban communities.

“Joan Ross' video animation Touching other people’s butterflies (2013) is a contemporary take on colonial history which will be played on an external screen on the building's façade, inviting new audiences to engage with Devonport Regional Gallery and a work of art from the national collection.”

Labor’s Duty Senator for Braddon, Anne Urquhart said that it was wonderful that the Sharing the National Collection program is giving regional communities the opportunity to host nationally significant artworks. 

“The chosen artwork will be on display in the heart of Devonport’s Living City precinct which has benefitted from significant Commonwealth funding. It is another drawcard for locals and tourists visiting the North West Coast.”

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman said the piece would allow locals and visitors to experience the city through a fresh perspective.

“We are thrilled to present Joan Ross’ digital work in Market Square, bringing contemporary art into the heart of our city. This exhibition allows our community to experience a unique and engaging piece that reflects on Australia’s rich history and diverse culture.” 

“This is more than just an art display—it’s an opportunity to reflect on stories that shape our shared identity. Joan Ross’ work encourages us to consider how our past influences the present, inviting all residents to engage with thought-provoking themes and fresh perspectives right here in Devonport.”

More information can be found about the work via the National Gallery’s website.

Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia’s new national cultural policy, with $11.8m over four years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen across the country for extended periods. 

With another three years of the program, regional and suburban galleries can still register their expressions of interest to participate via this link.

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