Adopted by Country – In conversation with Zhou Xiaoping

Next date: Monday, 02 February 2026 | 06:30 PM to 07:30 PM

Zhou-Xiaoping

Zhou Xiaoping is a Melbourne-based artist and curator, born and educated in China. Since 1988 he has been actively engaged with Aboriginal communities in Arnhem Land and Kimberley.

He has played a key role in major Aboriginal history research and exhibitions, including his collaboration with the late Jimmy Pike resulted in the first exhibition of Aboriginal artwork in China in 1996. In 2017, he was also the first to bring NAIDOC to China during his exhibition celebrating Aboriginal culture.

The latest publication Adopted By Country, it chronicles his extraordinary odyssey as he is gradually adopted into Aboriginal kinship systems and granted permission to participate in artistic practices and ceremonies that are usually closed to outsiders. 

He brings a unique perspective as a Chinese immigrant artist encountering Indigenous Australian culture. His exquisite ink paintings blend traditional Chinese techniques with Aboriginal motifs and stories, creating a compelling visual dialogue between two ancient civilisations. But more than just an artistic collaboration, this book offers profound insights into cross-cultural understanding and reconciliation.

Book now

When

  • Monday, 02 February 2026 | 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM

Location

Cheltenham Library, 12 Stanley Avenue, Cheltenham 3169  View Map

Consider walking, cycling or using public transport options, leaving your car at home.

Google Map

Add to calendar

Fields marked as 'Required' must be completed

Email Address*(Required)

Enter your email address or your friend's email addresses all separated by commas.