Plans to protect one of the Territory's significant cultural heritage collections have progressed, with the release of a design tender to relocate the Djomi Museum to the site of the Maningrida Arts and Culture (MAC).
The merger, which includes the construction of a purpose-built museum, will create a modern arts and culture precinct at the West Arnhem community.
The project enables:
greater preservation of the important community cultural collection currently displayed at Djomi Museum in secure and fit for purpose premises, recognising its value in supporting the intergenerational transfer of knowledge;improved community access and use adding value to the cultural heritage, knowledge and social memory of the community;greater operational and staffing efficiencies; andincreased revenue opportunities and enhanced visitor experiences by building on existing visitation and established tourism partnerships.
MAC is a pre-eminent site of contemporary cultural expression and art making, abundant with highly collectable and extremely valuable Aboriginal art and cultural artefacts; while the Djomi Museum features a notable collection of photographs, bark paintings, sculpture works, artefacts, and weavings.
The investment is part of the Territory Labor Government's $30 million Arts Trail Gallery Extension Program which is rolling out across Arnhem Land, Katherine, and Tennant Creek.
Plans for the precinct have been progressed in consultation with Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation (BAC), the MAC Steering Committee and Traditional Owners.
The tender will close on 20 June.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech:
"Merging the MAC with the Djomi Museum will better protect the museum assets, and maximise visitation to the precinct as part of our plan to firmly position the NT as a cultural destination.
"The Territory Labor Government has established several initiatives to improve the arts, culture and creative industries across our regional and remote areas towards increasing economic growth, and cementing our vision of the Territory as a dynamic arts and culture hub."
"With more than 100 community art galleries, museums and Keeping Places across the Territory, our rich art and culture is a key economic driver in the creative industries; and also supports the maintenance of cultural knowledge and skills.
Quotes attributable to Member for Arafura Manuel Brown:
"Maningrida artists are well known nationally and internationally for their striking art works that portray a deep connection to country and culture; while the Djomi Museum houses a unique collection that has significant heritage value to the Northern Territory.
"The development of the precinct has been led by the Maningrida community, and I know that many locals are looking forward to seeing this project get underway.
"This project not only honours the Kunibidji people's culture and heritage, it will also be a valuable asset for Maningrida."
Quotes attributable to Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Jacqueline Phillips:
"Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation has been advocating for this project on behalf of our Traditional Owners for some time now.
"The community is well aware of the cultural and historical importance of the artefacts and other items at the Djomi Museum and have been planning a fit-for-purpose facility to preserve and maintain the collection.
"Capital investment in these cultural facilities will enhance offerings and support local artists, jobs and businesses.
