The transformation of the gallery space at Jam Factory for the 2021 Tarnanthi Festival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts is inspired by the waterholes and landscapes of Western Arnhem Land and West MacDonnell Ranges. Each space is re-imagined to provide an abstracted but contextual backdrop of Country where the artwork originates. 

Two curved walls shape a body of watery darkness where Anniebell Marrngamarrnga’s yawkyaws (mermaids) swirl and dance in the gentle glow of moonlight. In a warmly-lit alcove, a series of outfits by Yarrenyty Arltere Artists rests on elegant metalwork ‘figures’. In a tight, low-ceilinged space reminiscent of a cave the carven punu artworks from the Maruku Arts collective sit suspended at eye level over the brilliant orange of central Australia.

The final exhibition outcome is a testament to the collaborative process and contributes to the city-wide festival, of which it was a highlight for many.