Kaurna country
South Australia
The Tarnanthi Art Fair creates an atmosphere of exchange across the opening weekend of the Tarnanthi: Festival of Contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art. Conceived as a con-temporary architectural system rather than a conventional exhibition fit-out, the installation forms the spatial framework for the presentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. The project affords Skein the opportunity to merge fundamental aspects of the practice; cultural significance, inclusivity, and education.
The design is the result of sustained collaboration between Skein, Tarnanthi, and participating artists and art centres. From early concept development through to project delivery, Skein engaged in an iterative design process informed by AGSA’s curatorial leadership and detailed consultation with art centre managers. The collaboration ensures that the architectural system responds to curatorial narratives, cultural context, and the diverse material and spatial requirements of artists, while maintaining consistency and legibility at the scale of a major public event.
Skein's ongoing communication with all stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities, ensures that the requirements to display and sell works of art are met. The success of the Tarnanthi Art Fair is a result of Skein developing solutions that support the evolving artists needs. The aesthetic design of the space, as well as individual artist hubs, provides an excellent experience for the public to engage with the artists, encouraging the sales of works of art. Skein is generous and kind and are always open to discussion to come up with the best solutions for all involved.
Tarnanthi, First Nations Consultant
Art Gallery of South Australia, Presenting Partner
Ku Arts, Arts Ceduna, APY Art Centre Collective, Bábbarra Women’s Centre, Baluk Arts, Barkly Regional Arts, Buku-Larrngay Mulka Centre, Bush Balm by Purple House, Gapuwiyak Culture & Arts, Hermannsburg Potters, Ikuntji Artists, Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre, Iwantja Arts, Iwiri Art Studio, Jilamara Arts & Crafts Association, Juluwarlu Art Group, Kira Kiro Artists and Waringarri Aboriginal Arts, Maningrida Arts & Culture, Maruku Arts, Moa Arts, Munupi Arts, Nagula Jarndu, Ngaruwanajirri Inc., Ninuku Arts, Port Augusta Arts Collective, Tangentyere Artists, Tjanpi Desert Weavers, Utopia Art Centre., Artist
Adelaide Built, Construction Manager
Green Bay Electrical, Lighting Consultant
Adelaide University, Co-Presenter
IAS – International Art Services, Logistics and Freight