Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Gallery of Australia (ATSIAGA) is a transformative project that will see construction of a world-class gallery that celebrates the artistic traditions and cultural expressions of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The gallery and surrounding precinct will honour the stories and truth-telling of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people internationally.
A collaborative vision
The Northern Territory Government, in partnership with local Arrernte communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from across Australia, aims to establish a centre dedicated to the display, celebration, and interpretation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and creative expressions.
ATSIAGA aims to:
- Celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art's unique and powerful contribution to the world.
- Share the stories of the world's oldest continuous culture, brought together in the heart of the nation and the birthplace of contemporary Aboriginal art, Mparntwe, Alice Springs, Australia.
- Construct and develop a high-quality cultural gallery and precinct that stands as an iconic architectural statement, driving tourism, enhancing liveability, and promoting social and economic objectives.
- Provide opportunities for local participation in arts programs, special events, and festivals, ensuring that the gallery serves as a vibrant hub for the community.
ATSIAGA will generate employment opportunities during the construction phase, and when the gallery opens, contributing to the local economy and creating a lasting positive impact.
Features
National Reference Group
The National Reference Group comprises of 11 members, 9 of which identify as First Nations and 3 being Traditional Owners of the 3 local Native Title estate groups of Mparntwe, Alice Springs.
This collaborative approach ensures an authentic and inclusive representation of the rich artistic heritage of Australia's First Nations peoples.
The ATSIAGA National Reference Group provides advice and recommendations to the Northern Territory Government on the development and establishment of the ATSIAGA.
View more information and members of the National Reference Group.
What is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Gallery of Australia?
ATSIAGA is a project that aims to showcase and celebrate the rich artistic traditions of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It will provide an engaging and inclusive experience for visitors, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Where is ATSIAGA being built?
ATSIAGA is being built in Mparntwe Alice Springs, Australia. The precinct and building location is at the Anzac Oval and old Anzac High School location.
In March 2022, the Northern Territory Government acquired Anzac Oval from the Alice Springs Town Council. The Northern Territory Government already owned the old high school site.
When will the building be open?
The construction of the gallery is forecasted to be completed by the end of 2026, with plans to open it to the public in early 2027.
What is the budget for the project?
ATSIAGA has secured funds from both the Northern Territory Government and the Australian Government. The Northern Territory Government has committed $69 million, while the Australian Government has committed $80 million.
Who is the architect?
BVN Architecture, in collaboration with award winning Northern Territory architects Susan Dugdale and Associates, were awarded the design tender in March 2022. The lead architect on the project is Kevin O'Brien, a descendant of the Kaurareg and Meriam people from the Torres Strait. Their expertise in urban design, master planning, and various public and commercial projects ensures the creation of a visually stunning and culturally immersive space that pays homage to Indigenous art. The design will reflect the rich artistic traditions of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and provide an engaging and inclusive experience for visitors.
Who is delivering the project?
The Department of Infrastructure, Planning, and Logistics is responsible for delivering the infrastructure project on behalf of the Department of Chief Minister and Cabinet. The construction tender for the first stage of the project has been awarded to Sitzler.
The construction tender for the second stage of the project is scheduled to be released in the fourth quarter of 2024.
What are upcoming milestones?
The construction timeline* is as follows:
- Quarter 4, 2023 - Managing Contractor construction tender released
- Quarter 2, 2024 – Managing Contractor construction tender awarded
- Quarter 3, 2024 - construction commences
- Quarter 4, 2026 - completion of construction
- 2027 - gallery operational and opens to the public
*As per forecasted project schedule - subject to change.
Will it be a collecting gallery?
No, ATSIAGA will not be a collecting gallery. Its primary focus is to exhibit and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts rather than amass a permanent collection.
Architect impressions
