Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair to put Indigenous art and design front and centre

The 17^th Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) will return in August, with stunning Aboriginal art, fashion, homewares showcasing some of the world’s most unique culture from right across the Territory.

The three-day fair will take place from 11-13 August 2023, complemented by the DAAF Foundation’s two Indigenous Fashion Projects events, Country to Couture, a fashion show, and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA).

Country to Couture will take place on Tuesday, 8 August, followed by NIFA on Wednesday, 9 August.

DAAF Foundation executive director Claire Summers said the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair would ignite the Top End this August, inspiring visitors with an immersive deep dive into Indigenous cultures, storytelling and expression through art, fashion and design.

“DAAF is truly unique in its ability to provide such a culturally nourishing experience, through art and fashion that electrifies the senses. It is a rare opportunity to experience the diversity of culture, languages and stories from over 70 communities in one space,” she said.

Recognised as one of Australia’s premier Indigenous art events, DAAF gives visitors a chance to ethically purchase artworks from more than 70 participating art centres that collectively represent more than 1500 artists.

Apart from browsing through thousands of items, visitors can also meet artists and participate in workshops during DAAF, which will take place at Darwin Convention Centre.

All sales generated by DAAF go directly back to the art centres, and the regional and remote communities the artists call home. In 2022, the Fair hosted 77 art centres, presented 8,350 artworks and attracted 33,353 visitors virtually and in person. The online component, created in 2020 in response to COVID-19, returns again in 2023, allowing artists to reach even more prospective buyers.

ARIA Award winner and Darwin-raised performer Jessica Mauboy also returns as DAAF Foundation’s Community Ambassador, shining a spotlight on DAAF Foundation events and programs.

DAAF Foundation Community Ambassador Jessica Mauboy said she was excited to be involved again.

“I am proud to be DAAF Foundation’s Community Ambassador for a second year, and for the chance to return home to Darwin and experience the August events in person and meet with First Nations designers, artists and art centres,” she said.

To find out more visit https://daaf.com.au/