Facing Up is a continuous sound installation and performance commenting on prime ministerial statements concerning Australia’s Indigenous population, covering issues such as land rights, citizenship and treaty from 1901 to the present day.
Until a referendum in 1967, the states of Australia retained control of Aboriginal Affairs. The words of the Prime Ministers, sourced from original spoken or written documents and juxtaposed with words from Aboriginal political activists of the same period, expose racist attitudes that were common place during the 20th century.
Performed as part of the Biennale of Australian Art in 2018 and again as part of NAIDOC Week in 2019. During BOAA it was also a sound installation along Ballarat’s Avenue of the Prime Ministers.
Facing Up received funding from Regional Arts Victoria and the City of Ballarat and received generous support from Federation University.
”The performances of the local Aboriginal actors who materially helped Lynden Nicholls with this theatre production were just – brilliant. Lynden essentially adopted verbatim theatre principles with local Aboriginal community members and pulled off a splendid production.” - Dr. Fred Cahir, Federation University
”A fascinating work! I have had a chance to explore it and I am very moved. Congratulations on blending these historical accounts with the avenue so successfully.” - Kate Gerritsen, City of Ballarat
”Such a thoughtful work which created in us and our friends both a sadness at the mess we make, again and again of simple social contract, and the different view of the landscaped gardens as very much the occupiers space.” - Dr. Lisa Anderson, International Installation Artist
”Facing Up was really terrific! Moving, thought-provoking, uncomfortable, challenging and important theatre!” - Barry Kay, Sovereign Hill