Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this film may contain images and voices of people who have died.
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Harry Munkara: This is one of the sacred burial poles, sitting here outside one of the famous arts centres: Tiwi Design Arts and Craft. This is the story I’m going to tell you today, let’s take a look..
Tiwi Design Arts and Craft started 30 years ago. Today, it’s the place where people come to see and buy our arts and craft.
Beautiful pottery that’s made right here. Carvings that tell our ancient stories like the Curlew Bird and the Moon Man.
Paintings by famous artists, like mother and daughter Jean Baptiste Apuatimi and Josette Maria Orsto.
But I’ve got something special to show you – the back room.
In here, you ‘ll meet carvers like sisters Tessie and Emma. Gordon, our screen printer, is also here every day designing prints.
And my uncle, Alan Kerinauia, who just loves to paint.
Alan Kerinauia: Art is like a family. I treat my canvas just like my little child.
For Alan, painting is a loving family tradition that is now also a business.
Alan Kerinauia: Yeah, I feel happy when a customer comes down to buy my painting.
Harry Munkara: Stephen Anderson is the manager of Tiwi Arts and Craft. He’s working hard to balance culture with business.
Stephen Anderson: The business aspect is very positive, very strong. We have a brand that is very unique and the Tiwi people are very proud their work is being seen on a global scale as well as just locally.
But for these two sisters, it’s all about keeping the culture strong for the young ones.
Emma: I think it’ important to teach our younger ones so when we pass away it’s their turn to carry on. That’s how our culture can be strong.
Harry Munkara: Tiwi Arts and Crafts – a great bunch of people working together here at Wurrumiyanga. See you next time.
