Ikuntji Artists sells paintings, fabrics, books, prints, clothes, bags and accessories, handmade jewellery
and carvings and gift vouchers.

Its fashion fabrics have been used to make eye-catching uniforms for the Australian embassy in Vietnam and the Australian Youth Orchestra.

Everything from boardrooms to airbnbs are adorned with artwork from the oldest surviving culture on earth.

“Business people can transform their offices and staff uniforms with Ikuntji art,” says art centre manager Dr Chrischona Schmidt. “I would like them to think outside the box and make a real Australian statement.”

Striking artworks in boardroomsare an immediate ice-breaking talking point and staff are proud to wear uniforms with a difference.

All Ikuntji art, from dresses to paintings, can be viewed and bought online.

And all donations and art purchases are tax deductible.

Ikuntji Artists is a member-based, not-for-profit, Aboriginal art centre at the small desert community of Haasts Bluff (Ikuntji), 430 kilometres north-west of Alice Springs.

The art centre is managed by a board of seven Indigenous directors, who all live in the community, which
has a population of only 150.

Ikuntji Artists was founded in 1992 after a series of workshops with Melbourne artist Marina Strocchi and under the influence of the then community president, the late Esther Jugadai.

The art centre was at first set up as a women’s centre providing services such as catering for old people and children.

But it soon evolved into a thriving arts hub for women and then an arts centre.

The artists draw their inspiration from their personal ngurra (country) and Tjukurrpa (Dreaming).

They interpret the ancestral stories by using traditional symbols, icons and motifs.

Ikuntji Artists has eight key artists, who exhibit in Australia and internationally – their work is in major collections across the globe.

The artists are particularly delighted with the uniforms made for the Australian Youth Orchestra because the vibrant designs will be on show at concerts around the world.

The Australian embassy in Vietnam ordered 80 metres of Ikuntji-designed fabric after seeing the artists’ work on the catwalk at Sydney Fashion Week.

Ikuntji Artists have forged strong relationships with a range of supporters and sponsors.

They are keen to continue to develop long-term mutually beneficial partnerships with organisations and individuals who share their values and want to work with them.

To discuss partnerships, bequests and support, email fineart@ikuntji.com.au

Visitors to Ikuntji Artists’ art centre are welcome, although it’s best to make an appointment. The most direct route is from Alice Springs via Larapinta Drive and Glen Helen Resort – 170 kilometres of sealed bitumen and 60 kilometres of unsealed road. The road is 4WD recommended.

Public spaces in communities do not require a permit, but travelling on Aboriginal land may. Check
the Central Land Council website for further information:
clc.org.au/frequently-asked- questions/cat/permits