Opening of Aboriginal art gallery in Subiaco

7/7/93

Aboriginal people had enormous potential to take advantage of the growing interest in their ancient and unique culture and art, Aboriginal Affairs Minister Kevin Minson said tonight.

However, he said, it was important that Aboriginal people had control over how their culture was portrayed.

Opening Indigenart, a new Aboriginal art and craft gallery in Subiaco, Mr Minson said few opportunities existed for Aboriginal people to participate in Western Australia's economy, especially in an entrepreneurial way.

"Ventures such as this, and the openings in the tourism industry, can have enormous benefits for the Aboriginal community," Mr Minson said.

"The benefits extend to remote communities where Aboriginal people seeking to maintain a more traditional lifestyle are increasingly using their creativity to survive economically."

Mr Minson said that at Indigenart people could see art and craft not only in static displays but also as it was created.

He said the excellent facilities also allowed for an expansion of this idea so that demonstrations and live performances could he held.

"This kind of activity will help raise awareness of Aboriginal culture and performances in the wider community and among tourists. 

"There is growing curiosity about Aboriginal culture but unfortunately there are too few venues available for those wanting to see and learn.

"It is hoped that Aboriginal people will get behind Indigenart and keep it alive.

"This is in keeping with the spirit of self determination which was the central force in Aboriginal Affairs today."

Mr Minson said raising awareness about Aboriginal culture was equally important.

He said it was through greater awareness and understanding that there would be co-operation and progress between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.

Indigenart was established by Dr Diane Mossenson and the opening exhibition features the art from the remote Balgo Hills community on the north-eastern side of the Great Sandy Desert.

Media contact: Diana Callander 222 9595