Elcho Island, located in the Arafura Sea off the coast of north-east Arnhem Land in Australia’s Northern Territory, is a place unlike any other on earth. Blessed with rugged yet beautiful tropical landscape – stunning beaches, aqua seas, cycad forests, unique wildlife and rare rock formation it is home to the Yolngu people and their rich and beguiling culture.
Approximately 550 km north-east of Darwin, Elcho Island is known worldwide for its many cultural exports. Famous artists who call Elcho Island home include ARIA award-winning musician Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, the cheeky Chooky Dancers, and hundred of visual artists who create traditional and authentic Aboriginal art that is exhibited and held in major collection nationally and internationally.
Elcho Island Arts operates out of the Marthakal Arts Hub in Galiwinku (the main community on the island). The Arts Hub, which is situated on a cliff offering stunning panoramic views of local beaches and surrounding islands, has two galleries, a retail outlet, an artist’s workshop and print studio and offices (and soon two outdoor decks).
Community operated since 1992, the primary function of Elcho Island Arts is to support Yolngu artists to share their culture and derive an income from their creative endeavours. This is achieved through the collection, promotion and distribution of authentic Aboriginal art and craft to a range of markets across Australia and overseas.
The core group of artists is a very diverse group, made up of men and women, young and old, from the more than 12 clan groups on and around the Island.
There are senior artists who work in mostly traditional mediums and have enjoyed success through exhibitions nationally and overseas, and young and emerging artists who often explore traditional totems and designs through more contemporary mediums and are just making their mark on the world stage.
Contact details:
web: www.elchoarts.com – currently down phone: 08 8970 5088 fax: 08 8970 5077 email: manager@elchoarts.com Location: The hub is situated on Eagle’s Bluff, a panoramic cliff top overlooking the main beach of Galiwin’ku, the main community on Elcho Island. Access: The Arts Hub is open Monday to Friday and by appointment on weekends