Darwin artist Franck Gohier takes up inaugural residency at CDU’s Danala campus to create major public artwork

A nationally-acclaimed Northern Territory artist is set to leave his creative imprint on Darwin’s newest cultural precinct.

A Franck Gohier artwork hanging at 35 Martin Cres, Coconut Grove, is a nod to a mural once painted on the roof of the home. Picture: Supplied

Renowned Darwin artist Franck Gohier has been named the inaugural artist in residence at Charles Darwin University’s Danala Campus, taking on a major new commission that will celebrate the Northern Territory’s culture and history.

Mr Gohier, a printmaker, painter, and sculptor, is set to create a large-scale artwork for the atrium of the new NT Art Gallery in Darwin’s Civic and State Square precinct.

The piece will consist of 40 intricately designed metal panels, each depicting a unique aspect of Territory life — from historical milestones to everyday local symbols.

Darwin artist Franck Gohier with his artwork in Darwin city.

“The individual artworks might represent a defunct NT speed limit sign, a stand of mangoes, or they could be a historical event, like Amy Johnson landing her Gypsy Moth ‘Jason’ in Fannie Bay in 1930,” Mr Gohier explained.

Some elements will be instantly recognisable to Territorians, while others will require an insider’s knowledge.

“People come to Darwin and complain that there’s nothing much up here and nothing ever happens, but … when you scratch beneath the surface there’s so much … history and stories,” he said.

Charles Darwin University (CDU) is pleased to announce nationally recognised printmaker, painter, sculptor and artist Franck Gohier as the inaugural artist in residence at its newest campus, Danala, Education and Community Precinct in the Northern Territory (NT). Picture: Charles Darwin University.

The project is part of the prestigious Creative Australia Visual Arts, Craft and Design Framework (VADF) Major Commissioning Program.

Mr Gohier is the only NT-based artist to be selected for the 2024 national cohort.

Born in France in 1968 and raised in Australia, Mr Gohier has played a pivotal role in the NT’s contemporary art scene.

A CDU alumnus, he co-founded Red Hand Prints, a printmaking studio that has supported countless Indigenous artists from Arnhem Land, Central Australia, the Tiwi Islands, and beyond.

This work by Franck Goiher showcases Darwin's in an art exhibition known as 'The Infamous Five'. Picture: Glen Campbell.

Through his residency, Mr Gohier hopes to inspire young artists, challenging the belief success in the arts requires relocation to Sydney, Melbourne, or overseas.

“Being an artist … is a profession like any other — and a rewarding and worthy one at that,” he said.

“You can live in Darwin … make an impact and a full-time living from this career.”

Mr Gohier’s work is held in major collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, CDU, and the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT.

His new commission will stand as a bold and lasting tribute to the Territory, offering locals and visitors alike a window into its rich, multi-layered identity.