This exhibition explores the vital role that rivers play in sustaining communities and ecosystems. Drawing on Amazonian Indigenous philosophies and practices, the exhibition connects to initiatives in the North East of England on healthy rivers and rainforest curricula, addressing ecological sustainability, Indigenous knowledge, and community participation.
The exhibition brings together the powerful work of artists from Peru and Brazil — Rember Yahuarcani (Uitoto), Harry Pinedo / Inin Metsa, Cordelia Sánchez / Pesin Kate (Shipibo), Brus Rubio Churay (Murui and Bora), Danna Gaviota with Kimber Fercat + Pedro Alca (Kukama), Denilson Baniwa, Lilly Baniwa (Baniwa), Gustavo Caboco (Wapichana), Tayná Sateré (Sateré-Mawe) — whose paintings, videos, drawings, and photographs show the entanglements between humans, animals, plants, rivers, and ancestral beings, confront extractivism, and foreground water as a source of life, continuity, and care. Alongside them, UK-based artist duo Zoe Walker & Neil Bromwich will work with school groups on a participatory project that explores the ghost rivers hidden beneath the streets of Newcastle.
The exhibition fosters a deeper understanding of the global climate crisis and will coincide with COP30 in the Brazilian Amazon as it advocates for collective responsibility by encouraging people of all ages to reflect on their role in shaping a sustainable future. The Amazon, the Ouseburn, and the Tyne are presented as starting points for action and understanding. Emphasis is placed on contributing to school curricula on rainforests, highlighting Indigenous ecological knowledge and challenging stereotypes.
The exhibition runs from October 30th until November 22nd, and will host multiple artist talks.
See the NCA website for full programme of events.
