Lander & Rogers said in a statement that it has welcomed proud Ngarrindjeri artist Flick Chafer-Smith to showcase her first solo exhibition Journey Lines as part of the firm’s Gallery Project 35 art series. The exhibition is displayed in the Melbourne gallery space where it explores the experiences that shape identity and personal transformation. Themes include cultural identity, self-discovery, motherhood, resilience and growth.
Through a collection of acrylic paintings Chafer-Smith creates a visual map of her journey incorporating Ngarrindjeri designs such as zig zags, diamonds and intricate linework according to the firm. Metallic tones feature throughout the works representing the silver lining that can be found in every moment of life. Her work often features native animals and vegetation inspired by memories of childhood journeys across the Nullarbor alongside cultural stories and themes drawn from her lived experience.
The exhibition was celebrated through a special Floor Talk event hosted by Lander & Rogers bringing together Chafer-Smith, The Torch CEO Susannah Day and Lander & Rogers Partner and Head of Pro Bono and Community Joanna Renkin for a conversation moderated by the firm’s Community Engagement Lead Sobur Dhieu. The discussion focused on the artist’s practice and the broader aims of the project. Details of the event were outlined in the firm’s October 2026 announcement.
Journey Lines is the ninth exhibition in the Gallery Project 35 series which aims to ultimately showcase 35 artists. The project commenced in 2022 to address barriers faced by South Sudanese and First Nations artists in starting or sustaining careers in the creative industries. Previous shows have featured emerging artists including Yaggerah artist Jenine Godwin-Thompson in 2023.
Sobur Dhieu said the project creates an opportunity for the firm to become a space for cultural exchange and two-way learning. “At its heart, Gallery Project 35 is founded on principles of agency and reciprocity. Our artists showcase not only their works, but share their cultural knowledge and strength through their creativity, their storytelling and the rich connections they bring,” Dhieu stated.
The initiative provides artists with a platform to promote their work sell directly to new audiences and receive support to sustain careers in the sector the law firm has noted in earlier updates. All proceeds from sold artworks go directly to the artists. The series forms part of Lander & Rogers’ Reconciliation Action Plan and community engagement efforts.
