The exhibition will run from the start of National Reconciliation Week through to the end of NAIDOC Week in July, and will be officially opened on Thursday May 27 at 7pm.

Art lovers will be Welcomed to Country by Gunditjmara woman Adeline Thomas before the official opening by Ararat Rural City chief executive Dr Tim Harrison.

Ms Johnstone will give a brief talk about her work.

Ms Johnstone worked for many years as a Koori Educator with kindergarten and primary school students.

In 2014 she returned to drawing, something she had loved as a child. In 2017 she won an art competition with a work that reflected family violence from a cultural perspective. This was used for a new Police Protocols Booklet focusing on Aboriginal family violence within our region.

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Along with commissioned and original art, and community projects, Ms Johnstone has also produced an Aboriginal Early Years Activity resource that is being utilised throughout Victoria within early years services.

Currently she is Curator of Cultural Engagement at Warrnambool Art Gallery.

Sherry and all the things she had experienced in her life whether it be good or bad, has shaped her to be where she is and who she is, today.

"I am stronger in my identity and more resilient, embracing and honouring my aboriginality, feeling proud and spiritually connected to my ancestors and country," she said.

"I include all of these elements within my creations and am passionate about making a difference."

Her work can be found at spiritandsoulcreations.com.au

The date for National Reconciliation Week - 27 May to 3 June commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey - the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision.

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

The theme for 2021 is "More than a word. Reconciliation takes action."

The exhibition is supported by funding from Reconciliation Victoria.

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