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Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair 2015 unveiling talent by Donna Pouw 21 June 2015
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fter generating more than $1.6 million for Aboriginal communities over one weekend in 2014, the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) is back and will feature the work of some 2000 Indigenous artists this year. The annual event, now in its ninth year, will run from Friday 7 August to Sunday 9 August and showcase the work of emerging and established Aboriginal artists represented by more than 50 Indigenous Art Centres from across
Babbarra Designs, Jennifer Wurrkidj, Lorrkon & Fish Trap, Screen print design on cotton, 2014. All images supplied
the Top End. Carving, screen printing, ghost net weaving and bark painting are just some of the forms of traditional art that will be on display and being created on site at a series of public demonstrations. DAAF Foundation chair Franchesca Cubillo said this year’s event would be one third larger than 2014, which set a record for attendance and sales. “This year’s event will showcase the raw and peerless beauty of artwork created by the oldest living
culture in the world,” she said. “It’s all about discovery – visitors can meet and purchase from recognised artists, as well as experience the excitement of unearthing emerging talent.” Last year more than $1.67 million in sales was generated over three days, an increase in revenue of 30 per cent on the year prior, demonstrating the Fair’s rising prestige and demand for authentic art experiences. All money generated went back into Indigenous communities across the
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Top End. Fair organiser Claire Summers said more than 5000 people attended in 2014, including representatives from leading galleries across Australia and internationally, with attendees snapping up items priced between $5 and $15,000. “DAAF is highly unique because it directly supports our Indigenous people by showcasing the work of artists represented by Art Centres, which generate external revenue for our increasingly under-threat
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Babbarra Designs, Raylene Bonson, Pandanus mats, Lino Print Design on cotton, 2014. All images supplied
remote communities,” Summers said. “Art centres are the social glue for many communities. They represent art practices that are often passed down through generations, where family lore dictates the colours and motifs reserved for a particular region or area. “Visitors attending DAAF in 2015 will have the chance immerse themselves in both the rich cultural heritage and the contemporary art
of artists from across Australia. Hands-on workshops will allow people to interact closely with artists and develop a deeper appreciation of Indigenous practices and art forms.” DAAF 2015 will feature works on canvas, bark, paper and fibre, as well as didgeridoos, weaving and sculpture. Three-hour workshops will take place daily at 10am and 1pm, while cultural dances will entertain daily at 12.30pm.