An emerging Aboriginal curator will lend her expertise to the National Aboriginal Art Gallery project in Alice Springs.
West Arrernte woman Marisa Maher will provide advice about First Nations collections held across the country, as well as informing the early stages of an exhibition strategy.
Marisa, who will also continue her role as assistant manager of the Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre, is a former recipient of the Wesfarmers National Gallery of Australia's Indigenous Arts Leadership Program. She co-curated the recent Desert Mob Exhibition, and played a key role in curating the Desart Photography Prize. Marisa is also a regular representative at the Tarnanthi festival of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech:
"The Territory Labor Government is developing a major art gallery dedicated to the exhibition and interpretation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture that will be the centrepiece of our Arts Trail.
"The National Aboriginal Art Gallery will be a stellar example of architectural excellence that will further position Alice Springs as the nation's artistic heartland, and the Northern Territory as a world-class arts and culture destination.
"The Gallery will deliver wide-ranging economic and social benefits for Alice Springs and the wider Central Australian region, including dozens of direct job opportunities and career paths for Aboriginal people.
"It's exciting to see the project start to take shape. Marisa's curating skills are held in high regard nationally and internationally. She will be an outstanding addition to the team and I wholeheartedly welcome her on board."
Quotes attributable to Curator Marisa Maher:
"It is a privilege to be able to offer some initial advice and expertise to guide the delivery of this major art gallery for national First Nations works.
"I am passionate about curating artworks for exhibitions and enjoy the process of selecting works to ensure cultural responsibility for display."
