The personal stories shared through artworks offer a moving counterpoint to the dehumanising statistics often associated with the anniversary of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.

Today, we invite you to reflect on some of the artworks and stories presented in Blak In-Justice: Incarceration and Resilience, and remember that behind every number is a person—someone’s family, friend, or community member.

Through storytelling, the exhibition creates a space for dialogue and reflection, encouraging audiences to engage with the issues it highlights.

Heather’s Blanket 2022 is a tribute to Yamatji, Noongar, Wongi and Pitjantjatjara woman Heather Calgaret who died in custody at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in 2021. The blanket was lovingly recreated and crocheted by her friend Stacey Edwards, as the original blanket Stacey made was buried with Heather; the one in the exhibition was created from leftover crocheted squares from the first.

Artist Stacey Edwards shares, “When Heather passed, I gave her sister the blanket to be buried with Heather. When a death in custody happens, it affects everyone. Heather was light and laughter in amongst the concrete walls. Love you sis. Miss you more.”

Heather’s Blanket and Yorta Yorta man C. Harrison’s painting Deaths in Custody 2021 were both created by imprisoned First Nations artists in an environment where deaths in custody have become far too common. Reko Rennie’s marble sculpture, Remember Us 2023 highlights the fact that at the time he created the work, 551 First Nations people had died in custody since the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody report was released. Less than two years later, current statistics indicate that the number is now closer to 600.

Visit these artworks at Heide Museum of Modern Art until 20 July.