Knowledge does not end with those who hold it; it moves, hand to hand and voice to voice, carried forward by those who listen. This exhibition traces the many forms ancestral knowledge takes, songlines, the quiet teaching passed between generations as they care for Country and each other. Each work speaks to a different thread of that inheritance, together tracing an enduring dialogue between past and present.

The Torch is a First Peoples-led not-for-profit based in Carlton, Victoria which supports a First Peoples community of artists to break the cycle of incarceration by strengthening cultural connection and knowledge through arts practice.

We mentor First Peoples artists with lived experience of incarceration to reconnect with culture and earn income from art sales, licensing, Cultural Activations and exhibitions.

The Torch is a big contributing factor to not getting locked back up. It’s life changing when you make that first art sale, especially if you’re inside.
Flick Chafer-Smith (Ngarrindjeri people)

All artworks are available to purchase and 100% of the artwork price goes to the artist.

Dates: 2–16 September 2026
Location: Xavier College, 135 Barker’s Road, Kew 3101
Open by Appointment, please contact Maria Tallarida on 9815 4574