London's art scene is currently hosting one of the most compelling visual narratives of our time, as Michael Cook, the acclaimed Bidjara artist, presents his first major retrospective. This landmark exhibition showcases over a decade of the artist's profound photographic work that masterfully reimagines Australia's history through an Indigenous lens.
Rewriting History Through the Lens
Cook's meticulously crafted images serve as powerful correctives to Australia's colonial narrative. Each series within the exhibition presents alternative realities where Indigenous Australians occupy centre stage in their own land. The artist's signature style combines digital manipulation with historical references to create hauntingly beautiful tableaux that challenge viewers' perceptions.
Major Series on Display
The retrospective features several of Cook's most celebrated bodies of work, including:
- Undiscovered: A thought-provoking series imagining Indigenous explorers 'discovering' Europe
- Civilised: Powerful images questioning the very notion of civilisation
- Broken Dreams: Poetic explorations of Indigenous identity and displacement
Technical Mastery Meets Cultural Resonance
What makes Cook's work particularly remarkable is his technical excellence combined with deep cultural knowledge. Each photograph represents months of planning, with meticulous attention to historical detail, costume, and setting. The result is work that operates on multiple levels - immediately striking visually, yet layered with profound cultural and political commentary.
A Growing International Profile
While this represents Cook's first comprehensive retrospective, his work has already gained significant international recognition. His photographs are held in major collections worldwide and have been featured in prestigious exhibitions across Europe, North America, and Asia. This London showcase solidifies his position as one of Australia's most important contemporary visual artists.
The exhibition runs through early 2026 and represents a unique opportunity for UK audiences to engage with cutting-edge Indigenous Australian art that both challenges and enchants in equal measure.
