Byera Hadley research reports
Kate Goodwin / 2024
Art Centre Architecture: Exploring Australia's unique arts and culture spaces
Community Development, Aboriginal & Indigenous Architecture
Northern Territory, Australia
This study examines the unique hybrid entities of Aboriginal art centres in the Northern Territory. It considers how architecture supports, or hinders, connection to Country and Culture, sovereignty, and cross-cultural exchange.
Art centres emerged in the 1970s with Aboriginal self-determination and the rise of the Indigenous art market. Primarily located in remote communities and towns, their economic and social value has been widely acknowledged. Alongside supporting artists and facilitating the production and sale of art works, they provide an invaluable space for community to come together and practice Culture.
Art centres occupy one, or a series of existing, adapted or purpose-designed buildings, often developed over time, with varying degrees of involvement from architects. They reflect the diversity of peoples and languages across Australia. While each art centre is particular to Country and community, there are commonalities in their activities, facilities, and architectural strategies.
This study provides a contextual introduction to art centres and remote communities in the Northern Territory. The architecture of twelve art centres, from those in the Tiwi Islands and the tropical Top End, south to the Central Desert, are documented and examined. The study identifies some of the key factors impacting building outcomes and makes suggestions that can inform discussions between architects, community, and funding bodies.
