'Deadly' Indigenous remote artists travel to Sydney

A significant cultural event took place in Sydney during the weekend of July 3–5, 2026, with the National Indigenous Art Fair held at the newly renovated Cutaway space in Barangaroo. This event marked the debut of the $100 million revitalized venue and brought together over 100 Indigenous artists from 30 remote art centers across Australia. The fair aimed to showcase the rich artistic heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage directly with creators and view a wide array of traditional and contemporary works.

The fair featured multiple exhibitions, including "The Living Room and Gallery," which presented pieces from 14 different art centers. One of the highlighted artists was Kieren Karritpul, a Ngen'giwumirri man from the Daly River community in the Northern Territory. Known for his intricate depictions of traditional tools such as coolamon bags, Karritpul shared how his journey into art began through the influence of his female relatives. Despite the challenges posed by severe flooding in his community earlier in the year, which damaged the Merrepen arts center and rendered it inoperable, Karritpul found renewed motivation in participating in the fair. He expressed hope that sharing his work would inspire future generations and bring joy to his community.

Another notable participant was Miah Madden, a Bundjalung curator who organized "The Living Room and Gallery." She emphasized the significance of the event, noting that many artists traveled long distances to reach Sydney, some experiencing the city for the first time. Madden described the exhibition as a celebration of the diversity of Indigenous art forms, ranging from traditional techniques to modern expressions. All proceeds from artwork sales were directed back to the artists and their respective communities, reinforcing the fair's commitment to supporting Indigenous economic empowerment.

The fair also included a prominent fashion component, led by Billie-Jean Hamlet, a Walmatjarri/Yamatji woman renowned for her presence on runways and as a face of Seafolly swimwear. Hamlet curated the "Indigenous Couture" runway show, featuring First Nations models and designers such as Nathan Maguire, Kaleema Donovan, and Jay Campbell. The event showcased labels like Maara Collective and Aarli, alongside designer Paul McCann. Hamlet highlighted the importance of recognizing the deep-rooted history of Indigenous storytelling and craftsmanship, emphasizing that the current attention being paid to Indigenous fashion is merely a recognition of centuries-old traditions.

Peter Cooley, the organizer of the fair, noted the growing interest in Indigenous art and culture among Sydneysiders, pointing out the lack of accessible venues for purchasing authentic artworks directly from artists. He viewed the integration of fashion within the arts sector as a natural progression, citing the increasing trend of wearable art and the potential for continued innovation in design. Cooley believed the fair served as both an educational experience and a platform for cultural appreciation, allowing attendees to connect with the origins of the art they admired.

As the fair concluded, participants reflected on the impact of the event. For many artists, the opportunity to present their work in a major urban center represented a milestone, providing visibility and validation for their craft. The fair not only celebrated existing achievements but also looked forward to future collaborations and growth opportunities within the broader cultural landscape. With the support of curators, organizers, and the community, the National Indigenous Art Fair stood as a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving narratives of Indigenous Australian art.