‘World-Class’ Aboriginal Art Gallery Revealed for the Alice

The Northern Territory Government has lodged plans for a “world-class” cultural landmark highlighting the contributions of Aboriginal artists.

The flagship National Aboriginal Art Gallery has been proposed for Alice Springs, known as Mparntwe by the traditional owners of the region, the Arrernte people, with designs and plans now on exhibition. 

The venue, proposed for land at 7 Wills Terrace and 26 Schwarz Crescent, Arrernte Country, would also act as a place of assembly and include an amphitheatre.

Planned is a five-storey building surrounding a gallery plaza incorporating retail and cafes at ground level and event spaces on the fourth level. 

While the majority of the 7.02ha site is vacant, there is a sports facility on part of the site.

The historic Totem Theatre adjoins the site, which is between the Anzac Oval and Todd River. 

It is a heritage building used by the Alice Springs Theatre Group to host performances and the Alice Desert Festival. 

The Government of the Northern Territory has brought in MasterPlan SA and BVN Architecture to plan and design the gallery. 

The NT Government says it intends to celebrate First Nations art from across the country, and support the empowerment and advancement of First Nations people as well as the economic development of Alice Springs and the wider NT. 

The government says it wants to “fuel the creative energy of the region, to increase the diversity of art and public participation, and extend the cultural offering of First Nations art on a national and international level”.

“The gallery will foster inclusivity and reconciliation for present and future generations, by enabling education and a greater understanding and appreciation of First Nations art and culture,” it said.

The development is on exhibition until April 5.