We Have Been Called Many Things

Curious about the stories and memories that shape who we are?

We Have Been Called Many Things is an interactive exhibition and free workshop series that invites you to explore the vibrant, evolving identities of Chinese-speaking Australians. Experience four engaging art projects that bring community voices to life:

"Traces of Play" by Helen Kwok is a participatory installation about celebrating the folk, playground, and street games we used to play, and how we subvert humble everyday objects into magnificent playthings of joy. Jump in, play games shared by the community, and add your favourite childhood pastime to the collection.

Barcode People’s “The Making of Fried Rice” is a fun VR gaming installation where you’ll “cook” ingredients that span beyond food—each item reflects history, culture, and belonging within the Chinese diaspora. Discover how a simple dish of fried rice connects us all.

“Questions About a Word” by Ming Liew is a video essay that looks at how Chinese gold miners, and the artists, 150 years later, learned English by writing it out with Chinese characters. Blending history and personal story, it invites you to rethink language, identity, and how we can better connect across cultures.

Step into Yajuan Cheng’s world with “Pleated Whisper” and “Rippling Frame”. In “Pleated Whisper”, watch folded paper and red thread dance through Queen Victoria Market after hours, uncovering hidden emotional ties. Then follow the artist as she strolls through Melbourne with her hand-woven circular frames in “Rippling Frame”, inviting you to feel time, movement, and inner calm in every sway.

Every artwork comes with a free workshop where you can share your own memories, try creative activities, and connect with artists and fellow visitors. Whether you want to play childhood games, test your VR cooking skills, watch unique handcrafts, or reflect on family history, there’s something for everyone.