Memories of migrant families and their voyages to Port Melbourne will come to life in an exhibition at the Emerald Hill Library and Heritage Centre in South Melbourne.
Recalling the Journey, featuring more than 60 works from 18 artists spanning multiple generations, is on display at the heritage centre until 15 February, with artists sharing their stories in presentations on Friday 22 January and Saturday 13 February.
One of those artists, Despina Sarikizis, will be representing her grandfather George Sarikizis through text, photographs and documents.
Curated by Multicultural Arts Victoria’s Lella Cariddi, the exhibition is part of What Happened at the Pier #2, an ongoing program of exhibitions and events honouring immigrants who arrived at Station Pier and Princes Pier.
Featuring original artworks, memorabilia, family photos and more, the exhibition tells the stories of families who sought shelter in Australia to escape war, hunger, poverty and political persecution.
On 22 January, contributing artist and Emerald Hill Ward Councillor Anita Horvath will share the story of her parents’ migration from Austria following WWII as part of an extension to the exhibition called
“Every family has its story, and Recalling the Journey provides us with an opportunity to share those stories of migration, many of which have gone previously unrecorded,” Cr Horvath said.
“Our histories, while all different, have led us here, to make us part of the same unique multicultural community and that’s worth celebrating and honouring.”
On 13 February, prize-winning poet Marietta Elliott-Kleerkoper will share the story of her family’s survival of the Holocaust and their immigration to Australia in 1949.
To register for this free event, visit www.eventbrite.com.au