Visitors to the Western Australian Museum – Albany will experience a unique perspective on convict settlers, the crimes that landed them in Australia and links to their living descendants, when A convict in the family? opens this Friday, 8 August.

This thought-provoking photographic exhibition by documentary photographer Mine Konakci visually explores and exposes the petty crimes that changed the course of many family histories.

Drawn from a diverse cross-section of the Australian community, direct descendants of convicts are photographed in modern settings, captured alongside a representation of the item, or items, their ancestors stole.

Acting Regional Manager of WA Museum – Albany Catherine Salmaggi said the exhibition presents a stark and stunning picture of crime and punishment in the convict era.

“In comparison to today’s standards, many of Australia’s early convicts suffered disproportionately,” Ms Salmaggi said.

“Crimes committed by early convicts were often minor – such as stealing a loaf of bread to feed a hungry family.  This resulted in transportation to a new colony and the creation of a new path in family history.

“For many participants in this exhibition, it was the first time they’d come across convict heritage in their family history.  We hope this exhibition will inspire our visitors to explore whether they had a convict in the family too.”

A convict in the family? is a travelling exhibition from Sydney Living Museums, and will be on display at the WA Museum – Albany until 21 September, 2014. 

Jane Rosevear
Media and Communications Officer
Western Australian Museum
6552 7805
jane.rosevear@museum.wa.gov.au