Reconciliation and Social Justice Library

National Indigenous Heritage Art Award puts reconciliation into practice

Chairperson Evelyn Scott today welcomed the inaugural Reconciliation Art Award as part of the National Indigenous Heritage Art Award, calling it a real and creative step towards reconciliation.

"For the first time in its seven years, this award has invited Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists to work together and present their artwork for the new reconciliation category," Dr Scott said.

"This category gives artists the opportunity to show the different perspectives that Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists have about a place that is important to them.

"So much of what divides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community stems from ignorance and lack of understanding.

"This initiative encourages partnerships and cooperative ventures between Indigenous peoples and the wider community."

Dr Scott said a growing number of Australians were aware of the deep spiritual significance of the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their land and waters. She said with that awareness came a desire to learn more about the relationship and about the traditions and ceremonies associated with it.

"What a wonderful way to explore each other’s cultures and to understand who we are as a peoples of this nation. The more we can find creative ways to work together, the more progress we'll make towards cultural understanding and reconciliation.

"Indigenous people's special places are a vital and unique part of Australia's heritage as a nation, and it's crucial for the whole process of reconciliation that these places be recognised and celebrated," Dr. Scott said.

Dr. Scott and Council member and Indigenous elder from Flinders Island, Alma Stackhouse OAM, will attend the Heritage Arts Awards ceremony at Old Parliament House today from 5.30pm.

Canberra Wednesday 16 August 2000

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