New Parrtjima Theme Resonates with Stunning Red Centre Skies

The theme for Parrtjima 2022 has been revealed as ‘Sky Country’, with a focus on our place in the universe and the relationship First Nations people have with the environment. The free 10-night festival returns to Alice Springs, Mparntwe, from 8-17 April 2022.

First Nations people have long looked to the skies to understand their place on Country, and in the heart of Australia the behaviour of the seasons, the sky, the wind and the nature of flight all provide the knowledge needed for desert survival.

Offering a new way to look at the world, and sparking our curiosity, the Parrtjima program will tell the story of sky, air and wind through light shows, installations, art, music, talks, films, workshops and performance.

AGB Events First Nations Advisor and Parrtjima Curator Rhoda Roberts AO said this year is a new exploration for Parrtjima.

“With a new gaze upwards under the majestic night skies of Central Australia, our Parrtjima thematic, Sky Country, is a discovery of the constellations, which have guided generations of Arrernte across their homelands,” she said.

Parrtjima keeps the flame of story and authentic Aboriginal culture alive by using the newest technology to tell ancient stories, all set against the 300-million-year-old natural canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges. The only authentic Aboriginal light festival of its kind, Parrtjima is the place where wisdom and warmth meet in the stunning Red Centre.

Register now to be one of the first to know when the full program is released. Visit www.parrtjima.com.au.