Renowned Darwin events showcase Indigenous art and music

This week, two of Australia’s most celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and music events are being held in Darwin - the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) and the National Indigenous Music Awards presented by YouTube (NIMAs).

The events showcase stunning artwork, musicianship and culture, with the public invited to be a part of the celebrations.

NT Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls noted “Darwin is the cultural heart of the nation, and these events offer an incredible opportunity to celebrate and experience Australia’s best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent in music, art and fashion.”

The popular NIMAs return for their 21st year at the iconic George Brown Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre on Saturday, 9th August, highlighting First Nations music, storytelling and the voices shaping the future of Blak artistry.

This year’s awards will feature a stellar line-up including Darwin-born superstar Jessica Mauboy, country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley, 2024 Artist of the Year winner BARKAA, and soul powerhouse Emma Donovan. Making her NIMAs debut is 80-year-old gospel and blues vocalist Kankawa Nagarra, whose debut album Wirlmarni recently won the prestigious $50,000 Australian Music Prize.

Nominated artists include ARIA-winning hip hop collective 3%, acclaimed songwriter Emily Wurramara, and Arnhem Land favourites the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, each receiving four nominations. Yolŋu surf-rockers King Stingray and BARKAA each secured three nominations.

Music NT Chair Catherine Satour added “Music NT is proud to present the 21st National Indigenous Music Awards on Larrakia, showcasing an incredible lineup and celebrating outstanding talent from across the country.

“This year’s event on Saturday August 9 promises something for everyone and we invite you to join us for an unforgettable night of music and culture.”

The 19th DAAF commenced on Tuesday night with the iconic fashion show, Country to Couture, celebrating a decade of First Nations textiles, fashion and art in a colourful showcase of creativity from across Australia.

The prestigious National Indigenous Fashion Awards honoured Indigenous excellence and innovation in fashion and textiles.

DAAF’s official opening ceremony was held last night before the art fair opening to the public from 8th-10th August. Entry is free, with attendees able to ethically purchase artworks first-hand from artists representing 80 art centres from across Australia. All proceeds from sales directly support the artists and their communities.

In addition to the art market, DAAF features an engaging program of artist talks, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops ranging from sculpture to jewellery making. This year, the Fair will also have an online store for those unable to attend in person.

For tickets to the NIMAs, the full line-up, and list of award nominees head to: nima.musicnt.com.au. 

To register for free entry to DAAF or to purchase tickets to the workshops and special events head to daaf.com.au

Image. Credit: National Indigenous Music Awards 2024