A major touring exhibition from Koorie Heritage Trust is now exhibiting at Shepparton Art Museum (SAM). JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live is the first major solo retrospective exhibition of the late Josh Muir, following his passing in 2022.
Josh Muir (1999-2022), a Yorta Yorta, Gunditjmara, and Barkindji artist, was born and raised on Wadawurrung Country in Ballarat. Drawing its title from one of Josh’s artworks of the same name, JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live reflects Josh’s artistic legacy and enduring presence through his artwork. The exhibition highlights the strength of his artistic presence and contributions to First People’s art and culture in southeast Australia, and contemporary art nationally and internationally over his short yet prolific career.
Proudly curated by Koorie Heritage Trust, with Josh’s mother Justine Berg and partner Shanaya Sheridan as co-curators, the exhibition brings together a selection of bold, vibrant works across painting, digital prints and augmented reality. The featured artworks showcase how Josh embraced digital methods of production and a visual language influenced by street art, a pop aesthetic and incorporate various forms of design, developing a unique vernacular of contemporary iconography whilst embodying his staunch love of family and community, reflecting on a range of themes including cultural identity, the impacts and legacies of colonisation, mental health, addiction, personal loss, and grief.
SAM Curator (Indigenous) Belinda Briggs said, “It’s such an honour for us to have the privilege of sharing a glimpse into the life and art of Josh Muir here on Yorta Yorta Woka, a place of belonging for him. This showcase invites audiences to an intimate encounter with his story and the spirit of his practice.”
JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live is on display in SAM’s Lin Onus Gallery until January 26, 2026. Entry is free.
