The Vārchive Revolution: The Imperative for Indigenous Truth-Telling and Redefining Heritage Preservation

Abstract

The following article discusses Paradise Camp by Samoan-Japanese artist Yuki Kihara, curated by Professor Natalie King which is on exhibition at The Powerhouse, Sydney, Australia throughout 2023. Authors delve into the significance of Paradise Camp as a vital and timely act of truth-telling. They highlight Kihara’s concept and realisation of what she has coined the Vārchive as a means to approaching First Nations archival materials. They explore the Vārchive as both artwork and archival practice which could catalyse a transformative shift within the heritage sector highlighting the imperative for Indigenous interventions within colonial collections. Reflecting on the Vārchive emphasises the need to redefine heritage, to encompass and consider Indigenous communities and landscapes as animate archives and memory holders which are increasingly threatened by climate change.