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Curtin students are invited to a free screening of the film Before 1770 at John Curtin Gallery, held to mark the closing of the Perth Festival exhibition A call and response across the ocean.
The film builds on ideas explored in the exhibition, examining themes of transglobal colonisation and cultural memory while offering a perspective on Australia鈥檚 history that is often overlooked.
For centuries before European settlement, the Yolngu people of Arnhem Land and Makassan Muslims from Sulawesi formed deep connections through trade, shared language and family ties. Before 1770 brings these relationships to life through vivid storytelling and immersive re鈥慹nactments, highlighting journeys, rituals and friendships that stretch across oceans.
By challenging colonial myths, the film celebrates a long鈥憇tanding history of collaboration and cultural exchange. It invites audiences to reflect on identity, belonging and Australia鈥檚 rich pre鈥慶olonial past, and to consider histories that sit beyond dominant narratives.
The screening takes place on Sunday 3 May 2026 from 1:30pm to 4pm. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.
