7 August 2025
This week, Darwin is once again the cultural capital of the nation, as two of Australia's most celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and music events come to life in the Top End.
Backed by the Finocchiaro CLP Government, the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) and the National Indigenous Music Awards presented by YouTube (NIMAs) will showcase stunning artwork, musicianship and culture, with the public invited to be a part of the celebrations.
Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls said the Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to support these nationally significant events.
"Darwin is the cultural heart of the nation, and these events offer an incredible opportunity to celebrate and experience Australia's best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent in music, art and fashion," said Mr Charls.
The 19th DAAF kicked off on Tuesday night with the iconic fashion show, Country to Couture, celebrating a decade of First Nations textiles, fashion and art in a colourful showcase of creativity from across Australia.
The prestigious National Indigenous Fashion Awards followed last night honouring Indigenous excellence and innovation in fashion and textiles.
DAAF's official opening ceremony will take place tonight, Thursday, 7 August, before the art fair opens to the public from 8-10 August. Entry is free, with attendees able to ethically purchase artworks first-hand from artists representing 80 art centres from across Australia. All proceeds from sales directly support the artists and their communities.
In addition to the art market, DAAF features an engaging program of artist talks, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops ranging from sculpture to jewellery making. This year, the Fair will also have an online store for those unable to attend in person.
To register for free entry to DAAF or to purchase tickets to the workshops and special events head to daaf.com.au [http://www.daaf.com.au]
The much-loved NIMAs return for their 21st year at the iconic George Brown Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre on Saturday, 9 August, highlighting First Nations music, storytelling and the voices shaping the future of Blak artistry.
This year's awards will feature a stellar line-up including Darwin-born superstar Jessica Mauboy, country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley, 2024 Artist of the Year winner BARKAA, and soul powerhouse Emma Donovan. Making her NIMAs debut is 80-year-old gospel and blues vocalist Kankawa Nagarra, whose debut album Wirlmarni recently won the prestigious $50,000 Australian Music Prize.
Nominated artists include ARIA-winning hip hop collective 3%, acclaimed songwriter Emily Wurramara, and Arnhem Land favourites the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, each receiving four nominations. Yolŋu surf-rockers King Stingray and BARKAA each secured three nominations.
For tickets to the NIMAs, the full line-up, and list of award nominees head to: nima.musicnt.com.au [http://www.nima.musicnt.com.au].
Quotes from Music NT Chair Catherine Satour:
"Music NT is proud to present the 21st National Indigenous Music Awards on Larrakia, showcasing an incredible lineup and celebrating outstanding talent from across the country.
"This year's event on Saturday August 9 promises something for everyone and we invite you to join us for an unforgettable night of music and culture."
