National Aboriginal Art Gallery concept designs released
The Northern Territory’s flagship National Aboriginal Art Gallery is one step closer with concept designs released today.
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech and National Reference Group co-chair Franchesca Cubillo unveiled the designs by BVN Architecture and local architects Susan Dugdale and Associates.
The Northern Territory Government has invested $69 million to develop the new National Aboriginal Art Gallery to be located in Alice Springs (Mparntwe). The Australian Government has invested a further $80 million into the project.
The Northern Territory is world renowned for its rich Aboriginal cultural history and the modern, state of the art gallery will exclusively house First Nations artwork.
The gallery will showcase the stories and artwork of one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures, brought together under one roof in the spiritual heart of the nation and the birthplace of contemporary Aboriginal art.
Features of the gallery include a cultural welcoming circle, top floor event space with spectacular views, healing gardens, ground floor cafe, Kwatye (water) Play and an impressive 4-level atrium.
National Aboriginal Art Gallery Reference Group co-chair Franchesca Cubillo said “This remarkable gallery shines a spotlight on the beauty, power and importance of Aboriginal art and provides a unique space in which to preserve First Nations peoples’ storytelling and share their timeless stories through art and culture.
“I’m proud to see the gallery come to life, a visual masterpiece that will strengthen the public recognition of Aboriginal art and pay tribute to the valuable contribution it has made in shaping our cultural identity.”
It will provide opportunities for local participation in arts programs, events and festivals, ensuring the gallery serves as a vibrant hub for the community.
Concept designs will now be refined and prepared for a construction tender process later this year.
The National Aboriginal Art Gallery project team will be holding project and design information sessions throughout August and September 2023.