Panel Talk: Activism, Art and Culture in Wollongong in the 1980s

Join us for a panel talk on the vibrant cultural scene of the 1980s that birthed Redback Graphix and Greetings From Wollongong (1982).

The late 1970s and 1980s saw an explosion of significant activism and cultural production in Wollongong. This panel brings together local experts involved in the scene at the time to explore the contexts and conditions that led to the formation of grassroots activism and its intersection with art, design, dance, fashion, music and more.

Joining us on the panel are Nick Southall, Sharon Pusell, Frances Wiedersatz and Craig Donarski.

Nick Southall and Sharon Pusell both worked for Redback Graphix. They are long-standing community activists in Wollongong and were heavily involved in the activism of the 1980s, especially regarding politics, labour movements, peace and environmental struggles.

Frances Wiedersatz is a Wollongong-based artist and was a friend of Mary and Michael Callaghan. She was heavily involved in the pre-production of Greetings from Wollongong (1982).

Craig Donarski was a local activist during the 1980s, active in the Wollongong Out of Workers Union, a creative artist involved in various art projects, and a musician fronting a local alternative/post-punk band (The Alternators). He has since gone on to have an illustrious career in the Australian arts industry and is currently Manager Arts, Culture and Creative Industries for the recently refurbished White Bay Power Station.

This event is free, all welcome. Registrations appreciated via Eventbrite.