The Ghan lights up for Parrtjima

The Ghan has been transformed into a spectacular piece of moving art with the help of Parrtjima artist Chantelle Mulladad.

A Central Desert artist, Chantelle’s Crossroads is the inspiration behind one of the large-scale light installations at this year’s Parrtjima – A Festival in Light.

It has also been used to transform three carriages of the iconic Ghan train, which travels through the heart of the country between Darwin and Adelaide via Alice Springs, the home of Parrtjima.

Chantelle’s work is precise and detailed, using pattern, colour, shape and structure to create paintings depicting her sense of country, culture and self.

To complement the external wrap, an immersive light installation has been installed in one of the carriages on the train, to give passengers a sense of what Parrtjima celebrates – the oldest living culture on earth through the newest technology.

Parrtjima is delivered by the Northern Territory Government through NT Major Events Company (NTMEC) and produced by Creative Directors AGB Events. The Ghan project was a partnership between Tourism NT, NTMEC, Journey Beyond and AGB Events. NTMEC CEO Tim Watsford said it was a fitting collaboration.

“Parrtjima is a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating Aboriginal culture, and The Ghan is a legendary journey through the heart of Aboriginal Australia, so the two complement each other perfectly,” he said. “Chantelle’s artwork is just one of the exquisite pieces selected to be part of a large-scale light installation at Parrtjima. Combined with a full two kilometres of the MacDonnell Ranges illuminated with Aboriginal art, and a program bursting with music, film, talks, workshops and more, you’ve got something pretty special under the Red Centre’s astonishing night skies.”

The 2021 Ranges Show will be an inspiring and enriching experience called ‘Spirit Kultcha’. Renowned Aboriginal electronic music duo Electric Fields has provided the soundtrack.

Parrtjima is the only authentic Aboriginal light festival of its kind. It runs from 9 to 18 April at Alice Springs, Todd Mall and Araluen Arts Centre. For more information visit www.parrtjima.com.au