NATSIAA 2023 to celebrate Indigenous music, dance
The award ceremony on August 11 will be a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and cultural expression across Australia.
Northern Territory
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The Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards will commemorate its 40th year with a night of Indigenous music, dance, and celebration.
The Telstra NATSIAA is Australia’s longest running and most prestigious Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art award.
Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on August 11 on the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Creative director Ben Graetz said the program would pay homage to the awards’ enduring legacy.
“This year we have looked to incorporate the music, songs and artists that have been a part of the award over the past 40 years,” he said.
Past performers include Yothu Yindi, Christine Anu, Letterstick Band and Tom E Lewis.
Larrakia woman Aunty Bilawara Lee will begin the night with a special Welcome to Country honouring the lands and seas of the Larrakia People, followed by a smoking ceremony.
Mr Graetz said audiences would be captivated by the impressive program of performers.
“I am also so thrilled to be working with our musical director and Darwin talent James Mangohig who will be joined on stage by an extraordinary array of musicians and singers including Dr Shellie Morris AO, Djolpa Mackenzie, Melanie Mununggur and Kamahi King,” he said.
There will also be “an exclusive performance from Gary Lang NT Dance Company plus the Red Flag Dancers from Numbulwar”.
Mr Graetz said he was honoured to be involved with NATSIAA.
“Having grown up in Darwin, NATSIAA has been a part of my life for many years and to be here to celebrate the 40th anniversary is truly something special,” he said.
“Don’t miss this momentous celebration of 40 years of the NATSIAA, where art, music, and culture intertwine to create an evening of pure magic and inspiration.”
The 63 finalists from across Australia have been selected from a total of 221 entries.
The Telstra NATSIAA has the largest prize for Aboriginal art awards in Australia, with the major Telstra Art Award giving $100,000.
The Telstra NATSIAA exhibition goes on display on August 12, and runs into 2024.
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