Art show gives the mudskipper its moment in the sun

A Brisbane-based artist, Justene Williams, has brought her latest exhibition, "Once We Were Mudskippers," to the Queensland Art Gallery. Her art is a reflection of the humble mudskipper, a fish that can live on land, leap, and burrow underground. Williams' creations are made from scavenged materials, often repurposing items found at the tip, on the side of the road, or purchased at retailers like Bunnings or Spotlight.

Her biggest show features a variety of mediums, including performance, costume, sculpture, installation, and video.

The exhibition explores the theme of evolution and the human race, asking whether we are ascending or descending in the grand scheme of things. Williams' use of recycled materials and her ability to transform them into new art is central to her work. Her studio, now larger than ever, allows her to create increasingly elaborate sculptures. Some of her notable works include a boat transformed with legs and a lady jellyfish, a scene from the video game Fortnite, and an installation of mannequins scaling the gallery walls.

Williams' background in retail, starting at 14, has informed her unique approach to art, which often explores notions of display, desire, and everyday labor. Her work at the Queensland Art Gallery aims to bring a sense of joy to viewers. The "Once We Were Mudskippers" exhibition runs from October 3 until March 7.