ART + OBJECTS : small + affordable 2011

The idea was born after a conversation Director Anna Kanaris had with a friend about the difficulty of finding gifts with a difference that the recipient would really appreciate. “It occurred to us back then that Indigenous art wasn’t something that was in people’s consciousness when shopping for Christmas gifts, so we thought we would try and make it so”, says Kanaris.

“Art is about an aesthetic and something that makes a difference in people’s lives – particularly original works that are individual interpretations of the artists’ life. It doesn’t have to be expensive and is a perfect way to buy something original and appealing, at the same time cultivating an awareness of Indigenous culture through art”.

The success of THE GIFT COLLECTION series has meant that new and different items than in the past will feature this year, including a range of licensed ceramic objects, new jewellery designs, prints and textiles, while most will be original artwork from artists spread as far as the NPY lands, the Central and Western deserts, Tiwi Islands and the Kimberley.

Popular items such as cushion covers, diaries and licensed products ensure that royalties go back to the artists and their communities. Other items include art books, textiles and the beautifully presented 2012 Jukurrpa and McCulloch & McCulloch Aboriginal and Australian Art Diaries and Calendars.

“Small is beautiful”, says Anna Kanaris “but what’s more in the current climate of needing to take care of the finances – small is affordable”.