The Northern Territory Government has this week announced the appointment of Rhonda Roberts AO (Order of Australia) as curator of the second annual Parrtjima – A Festival in Light event in Alice Springs, which will run from Friday 22nd September to Sunday 1st October 2017.
A Festival in Light is the first authentic indigenous festival of its kind ever held. This is dog story country and Parrtjima (‘pronounced par-chee-ma’), celebrates the different stories of this region through breathtaking display, sharing stories and culture all of which have been created by local artists.
The spectacular free public event returns to Alice Springs after a highly successful inaugural opening last year, which you can read our coverage of HERE, and 2017 promises to be even more colourful, whilst aiming to raise the profile of local aboriginal artists nationally and internationally by sharing their work and rich culture through this innovative program.
Roberts has a high profile as a respected Indigenous creative director, writer, producer and is a member of Bundjalung nation, Widjabul clan of Northern New South Wales and South East Queensland. Roberts will bring her extraordinary depth of knowledge and understanding as well as her connections with local artists to create a exhilarating outdoor exhibition of Aboriginal art from Central Australia. Roberts says “this event will connect thousands of visitors to Alice Springs, home of the Arrernte of Mparntwe”.
Andrew Hopper, General Manager of Northern Territory Major Events Company, said Roberts will work closely with the local Aboriginal artists as well as the 40 art centres across the desert region to develop the narrative for the ten day event this year.
Roberts reflects that our artists from the region are vital as they continue to paint country, ensuring the knowledge of yesterday is reimagined for tomorrow. The festival will showcase the oldest continuous culture on earth through the newest technology on a 300 million-year old natural canvas – The MacDonnell Ranges. This event is not to be missed, if a trip to the centre has been on your agenda, follow the link below and start booking your holiday.
Parrtjima – A Festival of Light will take place from September 22nd 2017 at the Alice Springs Desert Park on Larapinta Drive. There will be free shuttle bus from various locations around Alice Springs for entry to the light spectacular.
Check out ParrtjimaFestival.com.au for further information.
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