Timor-Leste
For Timor-Leste, the difference between economic independence, self-determination and bankruptcy is a median line maritime boundary with Australia giving the Timorese complete access to oil-rich deposits in the Timor Sea that are rightfully theirs under International Law. From 2014 - 2016, when much of this work was made, an agreement between Timor-Leste and Australia concerning this boundary was at an impasse with the Australian Foreign Office refusing to sit and talk with Timor-Leste's Government officials.
In 2019, a negotiated treaty was agreed, provided Timor-Leste conceded an economic share of her oil and gas to Australia. Current talks concerning development of the resource, are bogged down in disagreement and Timor-Leste continues to face the threat of economic collapse within the decade.
draw the line
#wordswithfriends
Standing in the Gap
For more information about this work and to hear my interviews with each woman, now archived in the Library of Congress - click here.
Lian ida – one voice: Standing in the Gap for Timor-Leste
to hear a short story from each woman in her own voice, click here
the basket weaver
the blind masseuse
Mind the Gap Exhibition
Mind the Gap was curated by Lindy Yeates in 2016. The exhibition explored the social, cultural and economic divide that exists between Australia and East Timor and addressed the political issues surrounding oil and gas resources in the Timor Sea.
The exhibition featured the work of printmaker Lindy Yeates, photographer Nandy Gurr and sculptor Tim Read who referenced their own personal connections to Timor-Leste. Illustrator Michael Fikaris reflected on time he spent at Arte Moris Art School in Dili and Timor-Leste painter Tony Amaral brought his street-art practice to Mind the Gap by painting directly onto the gallery wall. Cartoonist, Peter Nicholson shared the political commentary he created while working with the ABC, Channel 7 and ‘The Australian’ newspaper over many years.
Time to Draw the Line Trailer
A short film by Mandy King and Fabio Cavadini featuring the work of Lindy Yeates and the artists of Mind the Gap