We’re aiming to put First Nations art in First Nations hands. Image Shutterstock.
This week at ArtsHub we are starting a new series aiming to increase our First Nations art coverage and representation. We currently cover Indigenous arts and search out opportunities to acknowledge the success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. But we want to do more.
For the series First Nations Arts Focus, we are commissioning writers to deep dive into different artforms and to find out how institutions encourage First Nations work. What works? What doesn’t?
In August, we have commissioned an article by writer Karen Wyld, who will look into the richness of Indigenous writing and publishing. Karen is of Martu descent and along with being a freelance writer and Masters student, has also owned a bookshop and served as a former board member for First Nations Australia Writers Network.
Next we will explore visual arts, and take on theatre, dance and more.
Most importantly, we want to pass the mic to people who know more than we do and can talk about the issues we can’t. Views may be divided and it could be difficult reading, but if Australia is genuine about reconciliation then we need to encourage conversations and better representation.
… if Australia is genuine about reconciliation then we need to encourage conversations and better representation.
But we want to create a genuine dialogue. After each article is published, we’ll invite the Indigenous authors to host Twitter takeovers where you can ask them anything. Want to know more about why a writer chose that theatre company, opportunities for Indigenous performers or even if we missed your favourite Indigenous artist? This is your chance.
This week Karen’s article ‘Australian literature has a blak past and future’ will be published on Wednesday 14 August. Karen will be host a Twitter takeover from 12-2pm on Thursday 15 August, to give you some time to think about the article and have a thoughtful conversation. You can follow on Twitter on #FirstNationsArts.
We’re looking forward to bringing you more Indigenous content each month to celebrate the world’s oldest continuing culture.
