FireWorks Gallery

Off Country marks a personal shift in focus for the Herd's artistic practice. While her previous exhibitions illuminated the veiled history of frontier resistance—particularly in the region of her Mother’s country in North Queensland—these new works also turn inward. They reflect on her own experiences of displacement, resilience, and identity erasure, while also celebrating community and cultural reconnection.

“Off Country encapsulates a profound sense of displacement and expresses the trials, triumphs and truths along the lifelong journey back to Mother’s country,” says Herd. “It speaks to the experience of being born separated from ancestral lands, attempted identity erasure through state and faith-based care institutions, and the light found in connecting with other Black Fullas to create new communities and subcultures that helped many like me find their way home.” - Jennifer Herd 2025