Our desk research has been complemented by travel to local, regional and international art centres. We have connected with artists in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa.
Seed funding support from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries made it possible to better acquaint with craft practices across Australia through physical visits to the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, Desert Mob and Tarnanthi in Adelaide.
The development of new connections and reinforcing older ones has been important in understanding the integral craft practices of Aboriginal artists and communities, particularly relating to ceremony and everyday ritual. We are working with key community groups and artists to develop new responses that will underpin the formal presentation of work.
Members of our team have also independently visited South Africa, Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia meeting extraordinary artists, listening to their ideas and observing practice.
As a group we are constantly amazed by the enthusiasm and interest this project is generating. The responses encourage and propel us onwards and upwards.