Chen Man, Ms Wan studies hard, 2011. Chromogenic print on aluminium. La Trobe University, Geoff Raby Collection of Chinese Art. Photo: Jia De. Courtesy: the artist, the Geoff Raby Collection of Chinese Art, and NAS Galleries, Sydney.

Over a 35-year period beginning in the mid-1980s, Australian economist and diplomat Dr Geoff Raby AO assembled an outstanding art collection of artworks by more than 75 artists working in both China and in Australia, as members of the Chinese diaspora. In Our Time presents a selection of works from this special collection, now part of the La Trobe University Art Collection.

Through art imbued variously with humour, fantasy and sarcasm, the exhibition In our Time addresses diverse themes ranging from urban life, Chinese philosophy and cultural difference to social justice, human rights and nationhood. The represented artists work in media including painting, photography, drawing, ceramics, sculpture and textiles.

Exhibited artists include Ah Xian, An Kun, Aniwar Mamat, Cang Xin, Chen Man, Chen Wenling, Feng Yan, Gonkar Gyatso, Guan Wei, Guo Jian, Hua Jiming, Jhamsang, Jian Jun Xi, Jiang Shan Chun, Li Dapeng, Li Jin, Lin Chunyan, Lu Peng, Luo Brothers, Qi Zhilong, Laurens Tan, Rose Wong, Shen Jiawei, Sheng Qi, Shi Jianmin, Tan Yifeng, Xiao Lu, and Zhang Hui.

This exhibition has been produced for the National Art School in partnership with La Trobe Art Institute.

Opening Event: Thursday 18 January, 6 – 9pm.