Autonomous Bodies brings together a series of experiential portraits. Centred in Aotearoa, the exhibition tackles issues of beauty, power, and representation through works that convey authentic experiences, from the everyday to the divine. It draws on historical and contemporary works, seeking to foreground diverse perspectives, including those of Māori, Pasifika, and LBGTQ+ artists. Autonomous Bodies creates space for women and non-binary artists. The exhibition demonstrates ways in which such artists have asserted their agency, working against historical norms.

Those represented include Lisa Reihana, Yuki Kihara, Séraphine Pick, Diane Prince, Robyn Kahukiwa, Jacqueline Fahey, Kura Te Waru Rewiri, Ane Tonga, Jo Bragg, Edith Amituanai, Robin White, Yvonne Todd, Tia Ranginui, Aimee Ratana, Joanna Margaret Paul, Hariata Ropata Tangahoe, Paerau Corneal, Roberta Thornley, Kate Small and Holly Walker.