Josh Muir’s work on display in Federation Square. Photo by Christian Capurro, 2024.
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C.Capurro/photo
Josh Muir coined the phrase “aim for the stars, not the streetlights” before his untimely death in 2022.
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At present, consider the stars a guiding light to the Shepparton Art Museum, where the works of the late Yorta Yorta, Gunditjmara and Barkindji artist don’t just hang on the wall — they move, speak and breathe with his voice.
Curated by Koorie Heritage Trust, JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live is a major solo retrospective celebrating Muir’s contributions to First Peoples art and culture, his impact on contemporary art nationally and internationally, and his enduring artistic legacy.
“It’s such an honour for us (to have Muir’s exhibition) here on Yorta Yorta Woka, a place of belonging for him,” SAM curator of Indigenous Belinda Briggs said.
SAM curator of Indigenous Belinda Briggs says it is an honour and a privilege to showcase Josh Muir’s work.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
“Josh’s practice was boundless ... (it) draws us into a vivid, layered and pulsing energy.”
Vivid, layered and pulsing, yes.
But also bold, unflinching and moving.
Forever I Live encapsulates all, exploring themes of cultural identity, mental health and grief through a striking selection of street-art-inspired paintings, digital prints and augmented reality pieces.
The latter offers visitors the chance to interact with select works using iPads, which activate Muir’s voice and soundscapes.
SAM artistic director Danny Lacy called it an “experience that immerses you in Josh’s world”.
“We know that so many people will leave this show feeling the same thirst for creativity that fuelled Josh’s practice,” he said.
A free opening celebration event for the exhibition will be held at SAM on Friday, October 31, from 5.30pm.
This event will jointly celebrate the local artists of SAM Open 2025, as well as those who have recently showcased installations at the museum, including Philip Hickingbotham, Prue Venables and Yuria Okamura.
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