The housing crisis in Australia is a complex and deeply rooted issue, and a new exhibition at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA) is shedding light on its underlying tensions. The show, titled 'A Deceptively Simple Need', is a thought-provoking exploration of the housing shortage and wealth accumulation in Australia, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the country's history and its impact on its people. But here's where it gets controversial... The exhibition begins with a powerful statement from former Victorian Supreme Court justice Kevin Bell, who says, 'In Australia, the origin of the idea that housing is to be valued primarily as a commodity for producing private wealth is colonisation. It is part of our creation story.' This sets the tone for the rest of the show, which delves into the personal and historical experiences of the artist, Alana Hunt, and her relationship with housing insecurity. Hunt's work is a unique and creative response to the housing crisis, and it's a powerful commentary on the impact of colonisation and displacement on Indigenous people. One of the most striking pieces is a stack of bricks with a stack of envelopes addressed to the owner of multiple properties. The envelopes contain letters that people who own multiple properties can take home and read, and potentially even respond to. It's a playful yet thought-provoking way of engaging with the issue, and it invites viewers to consider their own relationship with housing and wealth. Another powerful piece is a series of Polaroids that reference Hunt's relationship with her mother and their need for housing. The two sets of Polaroids are titled 'When we win lotto' and 'Nice car, can't sleep in it', and they are a poignant reminder of the housing crisis and its impact on families. The exhibition also features a re-edited version of archival films by Bryan Lobascher, which were commissioned by the WA government in the 1960s and 70s to present the state as an ideal destination full of economic promise. Hunt has added a soundtrack to the films that questions the sunny optimism of the original work, and it's a powerful commentary on the role of artists in challenging and changing societal norms. Ultimately, 'A Deceptively Simple Need' is a thought-provoking and powerful exhibition that invites viewers to consider the complex and deeply rooted issues surrounding housing, wealth, homelessness, and Indigenous land rights. It's a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the housing crisis in Australia and its impact on its people. And this is the part most people miss... The exhibition also features a large light box that presents a juxtaposition of bright images of Western Australian wildflowers and black and white images of suburban homes being knocked down to build a bigger, better house. It's a powerful visual commentary on the impact of colonisation and displacement on the environment and the community. So, if you're interested in understanding the housing crisis in Australia and its impact on its people, make sure to visit 'A Deceptively Simple Need' at PICA in the Perth Cultural Centre. Entry is free, and the exhibition runs until December 21st.
