Connection at THE LUME Indianapolis, May 2025

Explore the Heart of Australia at Connection: Land, Water, Sky – Art & Music from Indigenous Australians: Coming to THE LUME Indianapolis in May 2025.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the deep, spiritual connection that First Nations artists share with their land, water, and sky, you’re in for a treat. Connection: Land, Water, Sky – Art & Music from Indigenous Australians is set to open at THE LUME Indianapolis on the 10th May 2025. This groundbreaking exhibition, co-created by Grande Experiences and The National Museum of Australia, promises to be a truly immersive, multisensory journey like no other. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a lover of culture, or curious about the richness of Australian First Nations history, Connection is something you won’t want to miss.

A Unique Immersive Experience

Imagine stepping into a vast, 30,000-square-foot space filled with over 500 pieces of artwork projected onto every surface. Surrounded by paintings, photographs and contemporary art, you’ll find yourself immersed in intricate details, vibrant colours, and profound messages of Australian First Nations creators, all set to a soundtrack composed of both traditional and modern Australian First Nations music.

Connection isn’t just an exhibit; it’s an experience that takes you on a journey across the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia, from the arid deserts to the lush rainforests, connecting you to the powerful stories that have shaped the lives of First Nations communities for tens of thousands of years. With music guiding the way, each theme – Land, Water, and Sky – invites you to explore the deep-rooted relationships between Australian First Nations people and their environment.

‍A Diverse Range of Art and Artists 

Over 100 Australian First Nations artists from across Australia are represented in Connection, including celebrated figures like Emily Kame Kngwarreye, whose distinctive use of colour and abstract forms has made her one of the most important artists of her generation, and Tommy Watson, whose works powerfully reflect his cultural ties to the land and his community. Konstantina (Kate Constantine), a Gadigal artist of the Eora Nation, is also featured and has played an integral role as a cultural advisor for the exhibition.

But what makes Connection truly special is how this immersive show brings together artists from all walks of life and all regions of Australia. From the deserts of the Northern Territory to the coastal rainforests of Queensland, this exhibit showcases not just the beauty of the art but the diversity of the stories it tells. Each work invites you to pause and reflect on the unique relationship between the artist, their community, and the land they call home.

Inclusive and Accessible to All

One of the most powerful aspects of Connection is its inclusivity. The use of innovative technology in this exhibition provides a deeper level of education and engagement for people, providing a unique interactive and learning moment about the culture behind the art. 

Connection is designed for everybody interested in the deep, interconnected relationship between people, their traditions, and the natural world. Whether you’re encountering Australian First Nations art for the first time or are already familiar with its forms and meanings, this experience will deepen your understanding and appreciation in a way that is both accessible and inspiring.

‍Learn, Reflect, and Celebrate

Connection invites audiences to explore the wisdom embedded in the traditions of Australia’s First Peoples. At its core, the experience highlights themes of stewardship and interconnectedness, revealing the Australian First Nations worldview that everything—from the land to the water to the sky—is deeply connected. This philosophy resonates universally, encouraging reflection on our relationship with the planet and each other.

Get Ready for a Transformative Experience

Opening May 10, 2025, at The LUME Indianapolis, Connection: Land, Water, Sky - Art & Music from Indigenous Australians  offers an opportunity to explore one of the oldest continuous art traditions in the world.

Starting in June 2025, new featurettes will debut at THE LUME Indianapolis—three-minute digital looping films created by students from The Herron School of Art + Design. These short films will add a fresh layer to the exhibition, showcasing the next generation of creative talent and their take on Connection’s themes.

With stunning visuals, a powerful soundtrack, and thought-provoking messages, Connection promises to be an unforgettable experience that deepens your understanding of the world and celebrates the timeless wisdom of Indigenous Australian culture.

Don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in this extraordinary exhibition.

For more information, visit THE LUME Indianapolis.

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