Karli Duckett: ‘Palimpsest’

This exhibition by photographer Karli Duckett documents a collective project led by artist Kay Abude. Through a series of creative workshops, Abude brought together artists, historians, and community members to share and uncover the stories and legacy of the Wonthaggi Miners’ Women’s Auxiliary, founded in 1934. The material developed in these workshops will be transformed into a permanent public artwork for The Union Theatre.

Duckett’s images capture the spirit of collaboration demonstrated by Abude and the women taking part in her creative workshops. In turn, this group was inspired by the collective action of the Women’s Auxiliary – a group known for its strength in both resistance and care. ‘Palimpsest’ displays this layered history and generations of women working shoulder to shoulder.

Karli Duckett is an artist and photographer based in Bunurong Country, South Gippsland.


Workshop Credits:
Workshops held at The Wonthaggi & District Historical Society and The Union Theatre, January 2026.

Artist: Kay Abude.
Workshop Participants: Brook Tayla, Fay Quilford, Jayne Benson, Amrita Taylor, Sue Clark, Wendy Anderson, Barbara Moje, Lyndal Chambers, Doris Chambers, Nicola Strating, Corinn Strating. Screen printing assistance: Stuart Russell, Maz Benjemaa.

Supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund.