New art and gift store helps fund local Indigenous Art

Kuku Yalanji Art

Byron Filmer

Junior Reporter

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Members of the Yalanji Arts Centre outside the new storefront. Picture: Sabine Heong
A showcase of unique ‘One of One’ textile sold at the new store. Picture: Byron Filmer

A new unique store has recently opened along Macrossan Street; Yalanji Arts & Gifts. The shop brings local Indigenous art to Port Douglas promoting the Kuku Yalanji artists and funding the Yalanji Art centre located within the Mossman Gorge community.

Selling one of one prints, fabric and pottery, the store not only helps showcase these talented artists skills but also, all funds from artwork sold is given back to the artists to help further expand their printing and pottery processes.

The Yalanji Arts centre works with multiple talented artists including but not limited to Vanessa Cannon, Lorna Shaun and Gregory Salt, all of whom have art showcased and sold at the store.

The art in question not only includes ceramics, textiles and paintings but also authentic merchandise in the form of bags and tea-towels.

Newsport spoke to Sabine Heong on the process of creation at Yalanji Arts & Gifts, and the feedback the new store has received from the community.

“Our facilitators, working alongside out artists create our iconic prints, they are sent down to Sydney where they can be copied and sold in larger volumes, this includes the canvas and dresses showcasing the art,” she said.

The Facilitators play an important role in ensuring the smooth production of the art displayed and sold; this includes Hannah Parker, Master Printer & Wendy Weger, Master Potter.

“All the art sold here is created by our local artists. The store also operates as a meeting place where the artists come to meet with customers and discuss their designs,” Ms Heong said.

“The store appeals to not only tourists who can learn about Indigenous art but also locals; many who have said ‘At Last! A Kuku Yalanji art store’,”.

After only around two weeks of being open the Yalanji Arts & Gifts has shown to be a great success. This success not only helps support current Indigenous artists but will support future emerging artists improve their skills and make a name for themselves.

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