IIAP 2021/22 Program kicks off in Cairns
Following on the success of the 2020/2021 pilot program and thanks to support from the Australian Government's Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund, IACA presents the 2021/2022 'IACA Indigenous Artsworker Program' (IIAP) a 10-month Indigenous artsworker professional development training program.
In light of COVID-19 lockdowns, the IACA team have adapted to online methods of training and embraced the opportunities that video conferencing affords. Ever-changing Covid situations permitting, the program also includes in-person practical sessions and field trips. Starting in September 2021 and culminating in July 2022, IACA has developed a weekly online training schedule. All sessions will be recorded so that videos as well as supplementary learning resources can be made available for participants to access online anytime via the IACA Members Area Website.
IACA understands that Art Centre job roles are varied and involve a combination of highly specialised skills. The IACA Indigenous Artsworker Training Program has been developed with this in mind so that the subject of each training module correlates to Art Centre job descriptions and real-world practical applications.
Due to the small group size this training program is flexible, responsive, and shaped to suit artsworker abilities, needs and requests. Artsworkers will be assigned weekly tasks during training follow-up sessions and thereby given the chance to workshop outcomes with their peers in a safe, informal tutorial environment.
On 28 October the 2021/2022 program got off to a flying start at NorthSite Contemporary Arts in Cairns. With behind the scenes access and insights into storage, conservation, artwork handling and packaging. Customised training included personal development, masterclasses in retail, curatorial admin and exhibition installation. The week was a great success thanks to the trainers Penny Watson and the excellent NorthSite staff: Ashleigh Campbell, Aven Noah Jnr, Rosie Miller, Lauren Carter and Jamaylya Ballangarry-Kearins.
This year’s cohort of artsworkers includes:
- Flora Au (Badu Arts)
- Kian Bowen (Hope Vale Arts and Cultural Centre)
- Margaret Mara (Wei’Num Arts and Crafts)
- Tahmana Misick (Moa Arts)
- Babetha Nawia (Moa Arts)
- Laurie Nona (Badu Arts)
- Matilda Nona (Badu Arts)
This project has been made possible by assistance from the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund - an Australian Government initiative.
Main image credit: (L to R) Margaret Mara, Matilda Nona, Geraldine Henrici, Penny Watson, Pam Bigelow, Tahmana Misick, Babetha Nawia and Kian Bowen in Cairns.