Peel Artist's Indonesian Heritage Inspires Major Perth Exhibition
A talented artist from the Peel region is bringing his rich Indonesian lineage to life in a significant new exhibition at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts. Abdul-Rahman Abdullah will contribute his thought-provoking work to the upcoming showcase titled Awakening Histories, which launches next month in Northbridge.
Exploring Cultural Exchange Through Art
The exhibition will feature twenty-five Western Australian artists whose pieces collectively honour the historical interactions between First Nations peoples and the Makassan seafarers from South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This cultural exchange forms the central theme of the collection, which aims to shed light on alternative historical narratives.
Abdullah was personally invited by senior curator Francis Parker to display his work The Collectors Table in the exhibition. This piece was first presented at the Monash University Art Museum in 2025 before making its way to Perth for this special showcase.
Drawing on Ancestral Roots
The artist draws significant inspiration from his maternal lineage, which traces back to the old Luwu Kingdom in South Sulawesi. Through his contributions to Awakening Histories, Abdullah pays homage to his Bugis ancestors and their cultural legacy.
"As an artist, I often look at personal histories that embody ideas of cultural exchange," Abdullah explained. "I was excited to exhibit my work with so many incredible artists, alongside a considered selection of historical and archival objects."
A Decade of Artistic Exploration
Since beginning his artistic career in 2013, Abdullah has become particularly known for creating intricate hand-carved wooden sculptures. His work consistently explores overlapping themes of culture, identity, and humanity's relationship with the natural world.
For the Awakening Histories exhibition, Abdullah will present a series of drawings and sculptures that unpack complex ideas about cultural blending and personal relationships with history. Among these works is a particularly striking piece titled Tanpa Sempadan – a five-metre saltwater crocodile carved from wood over an intensive four-month period.
Highlighting Alternative Historical Narratives
"This exhibition speaks to the heart of my artistic practice, looking at instances of genuine cultural intersection and alternative histories outside of the official narrative," Abdullah said. "I would invite everyone to come and explore PICA, immerse yourself in the amazing works of artists shining a light on histories that remain even more relevant than ever."
Alongside contemporary works by local artists, the exhibition will feature historic UNESCO-listed pieces. These artifacts will help visitors reflect on the early intercultural connections forged through principles of reciprocity, respect, and trade between different cultures.
Exhibition Details and Duration
The Awakening Histories exhibition will officially launch at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts on February 5th, 2026. The showcase will remain open to the public until March 29th, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike to experience this culturally significant collection.
This exhibition represents an important moment for Western Australian arts, bringing together diverse artistic perspectives to explore shared histories and cultural connections that continue to resonate in contemporary society.
