Page 14 - Port Douglas Magazine 42

indigenous art.

designers and art centres in Australia to be accepted into the
lineup, a testament to the high quality of their work.
“Linda’s involvement was a turning point,” said Sabine. “She
worked closely with our artists to ensure the fabrics were
highlighted in an authentic way. For us it was never about the
fashion per se but about showcasing our fabrics and the talent
of our artists.”
These achievements are paving the way for Yalanji Arts to
take the next big step: the opening of an art gallery and shop
in Port Douglas. Scheduled for October 2024, the gallery will
represent a significant milestone for the centre. “The gallery
and shop will be a place where the world can come to see,
experience, and purchase genuine Indigenous Yalanji art,”
Sabine said.
The gallery will feature works from Yalanji Arts’ member
artists, but it will also open its doors to independent Yalanji
artists. “For me, opening a Yalanji gallery and shop on their
traditional land is a no-brainer and long overdue,” Sabine
explained. “It will mean all Yalanji artists will have the
opportunity to showcase their work.
The gallery will be a hub for local Indigenous art, a place
where the world can connect with the stories and traditions of
the Kuku Yalanji people.”
Yalanji Arts’ plans don’t stop at the gallery. The centre is also
working on launching an online shop, which will feature all
artworks and merchandise along with limited-edition
prints that will be available for purchase.
Although the centre is not open to the public,
they will be extending an invitation to
engage with special interest groups,
such as conference attendees from
major hotels in the near future.
By offering Yalanji-led workshops
and guided tours at the centre,
Sabine hopes it will provide visitors
with a deeper understanding of
the culture and traditions that
inspire the artists’ work, creating
meaningful connections that
extend beyond the art itself and
allow guests to purchase artwork
hot from the press (or kiln).
As Yalanji Arts continues to grow
and evolve, its mission remains
clear: to build the profile and
reputation of Kuku Yalanji artists
and ensure that their voices are
heard around the world.
The opening of the gallery
in Port Douglas marks the
beginning of a new chapter
for Yalanji Arts, one that
promises to bring even greater
recognition to the artists and
their work. “This is just the
beginning,” Sabine said. “We have
so much more to share, and we’re excited
about what the future holds. But at the end of the
day, it’s all about the artists. It’s their vision, their talent,
and their stories that are at the heart of everything we do.”
As Yalanji Arts prepares to open its doors to the world,
one thing is certain: Indigenous art is now being
recognised for its versatility, weaving tradition with
innovation and sharing the stories of Country that
everyone should see.
yalanjiarts.com.au

DESIGN Cassowary print
ARTIST Karen Shuan
14 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner