The Torch is excited to participate in the Victorian First Peoples Art and Design Fair (20–23 February 2025), featuring works by Alfred Carter (Gunaikurnai), Stacey Edwards (Taungurung, Boon Wurrung), Ash Thomas (Yorta Yorta, Wiradjuri) and Robby Wirramanda (Wergaia, Wotjobaluk).

The Victorian First Peoples Art and Design Fair is a new showcase exhibition by Melbourne Art Fair. An initiative of the Victorian Government’s Creative State strategy and driven by the Creative Victoria First Peoples Directions Circle, the Victorian First Peoples Art and Design Fair aims to promote and build the market for the extraordinary work of Victoria’s First People creatives.

This is a ticketed event. Book your ticket here!

Artist Biographies

Robby Wirramanda
Robby is a Wergaia and Wotjobaluk artist whose artistic journey began as a child, painting alongside his grandmother. His art draws from personal experiences, cultural history, and family stories, offering life lessons for future generations. Through bold and vibrant depictions of his Country, Robby celebrates his connection to Chinkapook, a small town in northwestern Victoria. His work reflects a profound bond with his culture and the land that inspires him. Robby is also a writer, musician, and filmmaker, and a former Australian and ISKA World Cup jiujitsu champion.

Alfred Carter
Alfred is a proud Gunaikurnai man and a post-release artist with The Torch who began painting in 2018. After completing a Koori Art course at Kangan TAFE, he further developed his skills independently. Alfred’s distinctive style merges contemporary lines and dots with realistic depictions of animals and objects, celebrating culture, ancestors, family, and Country. His greatest inspiration comes from his grandfather, who crafted traditional boomerangs, didgeridoos, and brushes from natural materials. “I lived with my grandfather for a couple of years before he died. He is my idol,” Alfred reflects. Now a full-time artist, Alfred views painting as both a livelihood and a powerful connection to his heritage. Creating art brings him joy and a deep sense of fulfillment.

Stacey Edwards
Stacey is a Taungurung/Boon Wurrung woman with traditional connections to the Melbourne region. Stacey’s grandfather and his siblings were removed under government policies and today Stacey describes herself as a grandchild of the Stolen Generation. Stacey is exploring and reclaiming southeast Australian designs through her paintings, referencing concentric diamond designs from traditional shields and clubs.

Ash Thomas
Ash Thomas is a Yorta Yorta/Wiradjuri man who was born in Shepparton. As a child he has fond memories of spending school holidays by the Murray River ‘without a worry in the world’. Ash has a lifelong passion for art and now practices his art on Wurundjeri Country. His artwork is detail oriented and represents a strong connection to his identity and culture.

Exhibition Dates: Friday 21 February, Saturday 22 February, or Sunday 23 February.
Address: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Tickets: $10–$32

More information

Visit event website.