WATER STORIES

An exhibition by Ngarrindjeri artist Melanie Koolmatrie and
Arts Ceduna from the Far West Coast of South Australia.

Melanie reflects on her deep cultural and personal connection to water, exploring the life-giving energy of the River, Lakes, Coorong, and Sea. Her work speaks to water’s role as a source of transformation, reflection, and renewal.

Arts Ceduna’s sculptural works, created from marine debris and ghost nets, reflect on the beauty and fragility of our oceans. Wirangu, Gugada/Kokatha, and Mirning artists developed these artworks during an on-Country camp at Mt Ives, these pieces transform discarded materials into powerful statements on care for Country and ocean sustainability. Each artwork raises awareness about environmental protection and the impact of pollution on marine life, while expressing the artist’s deep cultural and personal connection to water and place.

Water Stories highlights the interconnection between people and the environment, reminding us that water is not just a resource, but a living force that connects and sustains us all.

View the exhibition in-person at Yitpi Yartapuultiku until 16 March 2026
Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm, Saturday -Sunday 10am - 2pm
Yitpi Yartapuultiki
Kaurna Country, 1300 Old Port Road
Yartapuulti / Port Adelaide SA

Join us for an Artist Talk with Melanie Koolmatrie at Yitpi Yartapuultiku
Saturday 28 Febraury 2026
Artist Talk: 10:00am - 10:45am
Q&A: 10:45am - 11:00am
No bookings required

Ku Arts Support

Ku Arts is passionate about creating opportunities for our artists, whether through creative development programs or pathways that support strong economic outcomes. Water Stories celebrates the work Ku Arts does walking alongside our member art centres and independent artists, strengthening creative practice, visibility, and sustainable careers across South Australia.

For this exhibition, Ku Arts supported Arts Ceduna and Ngarrindjeri artist Melanie Koolmatrie through both creative and professional development initiatives. Melanie received one-on-one mentorship and artwork development support from Ku Arts Studio Manager, Em Franklin, with generous art material assistance from Arts National. Arts Ceduna artists were supported through wellbeing camps on Country at Mt Ives and Ku Arts-facilitated workshops, where sculptural works made from marine debris and ghost nets were developed.

Together, these collaborations demonstrate Ku Arts’ commitment to nurturing strong, culturally grounded practice by empowering artists to tell their stories, care for Country, and create meaningful connections between people and place.