Melbourne photographer Bindi Cole is forging a name for herself on the Australian art scene. Inspired by her grandmothers experiences as part of the stolen generation, her work focuses on some uncomfortable truths concerning Australian and Indgineous culture. This work has won her acclaim, including the 2009 Deadly Art Award and recently a commission by Arts Victoria to travel to the Tiwi Islands to photograph a very special community.
The SistaGirls are a community of Indigenous transgender men and became the subjects of a month long photoshoot by Cole. The Yimpinni or SistaGirls were once valued as nurtures in their communities but now, much like in the Western community are treated like outcasts.
"During late 2009, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to spend a month living with the Sistagirls on the Tiwi Islands creating a series of highly stylised portraits of them. I loaded a barge with a four-wheel drive, lights, a generator, cameras and enough film to fill a suitcase. Each day brought an emotional roller coaster from moments of elation around what was being achieved with the images to complete anxiety from the many dramas that occurred. This time has affected me in a profound way. The Sistagirls have touched my heart. I only hope that in some way I have captured the essence of who they are and the spirit of their community."
http://www.bindicoleissnaphappy.blogspot.com/
