Dan Sultan to kickstart the Tarnanthi Festival’s opening weekend at AGSA: Celebrating Indigenous Art and Culture in Australia

Arts Dan Sultan to launch Tarnanthi Festival’s opening weekend at AGSA

By Stacey Caruso | Published on August 18, 2023

Celebrated singer-songwriter and Arrernte/Gurindji artist Dan Sultan has been chosen to ignite the opening weekend festivities of this year’s Tarnanthi Festival at the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA). The festival is an annual showcase of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

On the evening of Thursday, 19 October, Sultan will open the free public event on AGSA’s North Terrace forecourt. The event will feature a Kaurna Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony led by Adelaide’s Kuma Kaaru, and will be hosted by Shelley Ware, a Yankunytjatjara and Wirangu woman, corporate speaker, and educator.

Sultan, a six-time ARIA Award winner and one of Australia’s most prominent musicians, expressed his excitement about being a part of this celebration of First Nations art and culture. He mentioned that the Tarnanthi Festival will be his only Adelaide date on his upcoming tour.

The significance of Tarnanthi Festival

The Tarnanthi Festival, known for its extensive showcasing of contemporary Indigenous art, offers a platform for artists from different communities and backgrounds to share their creative expressions. The festival aims to deepen the understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through the exploration of their art.

Nici Cumpston OAM, Tarnanthi Artistic Director, spoke about the importance of the opening weekend in creating an opportunity for visitors to connect with artists from across Australia and gain insights into their experiences. She mentioned that Dan Sultan’s performance will set the tone for the festival, creating a buzz as the exhibition officially opens.

Philosophical and cultural significance of Indigenous art

The inclusion of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in mainstream cultural institutions like AGSA is a step towards recognizing the importance and richness of Indigenous culture. Indigenous art is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and stories, carrying the wisdom and spirit of generations. It offers a unique perspective on the world and adds diversity to the artistic landscape.

By showcasing Indigenous art, festivals like Tarnanthi promote cultural awareness and understanding, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. Through their artwork, Indigenous artists communicate their connection to the land, their history, and their ongoing struggles and triumphs. This allows for a deeper appreciation of their culture and paves the way for reconciliation and recognition.

Advice for visitors

If you are planning to attend the Tarnanthi Festival, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

• Take your time: Allow yourself ample time to explore the exhibitions and engage with the artworks. Indigenous art often contains layers of meaning and symbolism that require reflection and contemplation.
• Listen to the artists: Attend artist talks and discussions to hear directly from the artists themselves. This provides a unique opportunity to gain insights into their artistic process, inspirations, and perspectives.
• Support Indigenous artists: Consider purchasing artwork directly from the artists or the Tarnanthi Art Fair. This not only supports the artists financially but also helps sustain their communities and cultural practices.
• Engage with cultural protocols: Respect the cultural protocols and traditions during the festival, such as Welcome to Country ceremonies and smoking ceremonies. Be mindful of appropriate behavior and dress.
• Embrace the diversity: Indigenous art encompasses a wide range of styles and mediums. Embrace the diversity of artistic expressions and challenge any preconceived notions you may have.

In conclusion

The Tarnanthi Festival is a significant cultural event that celebrates the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. By inviting renowned artist Dan Sultan to kick off the festival, the AGSA acknowledges the talent and dynamism of Indigenous artists. The festival provides an opportunity for visitors to engage with Indigenous culture, challenge stereotypes, and support the artists and their communities.

As you explore the Tarnanthi exhibition and participate in the various events, take the time to immerse yourself in the stories and perspectives shared through these artworks. Indigenous art has the power to bridge divides and foster understanding, so let it inspire and enlighten you.