The Willaura Modern art gallery is home to two new exhibitions, with the collections ‘Indictment of a Species’ and ‘Sparking Joy’ open to the public until April 18.

Housed in Willaura’s historic railway station and courthouse buildings, the exhibitions ask viewers to examine what it means to be human.

Wickliffe artist Howard Brandenburg has transformed the old courthouse chambers into an immersive installation titled Indictment of a Species, where humankind is placed on trial and viewers are invited to deliver their own verdict on the actions of humanity.

Brandenburg said he was still forming his own verdict.

“We have a lot of positive values, and as a human species we are not necessarily guilty … yet,” he said.

Across the tracks in the old railway station is Sparking Joy, a group exhibition by regional artists that celebrates small and radiant moments of life – a burst of colour, a bird in flight and the beauty of the ordinary.

Willaura Modern’s Lois Reynolds said the exhibition included playful felt sculptures, vivid landscapes and imaginative creations that brought energy and optimism to the gallery.

“These exhibitions hold opposites in balance. One asks us to question who we are, the other reminds us why life is worth celebrating. It’s a wonderful reflection of what this community is becoming,” she said.

Both Indictment of a Species and Sparking Joy are now open to the public at Willaura Modern on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, until April 18, with other times by appointment.

People can find more information about the gallery at www.facebook.com/willauraModern.

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