MEDIA RELEASE: Australian Youth Orchestra celebrates First Nations artistry in groundbreaking collaboration with Ikuntji Artists

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MEDIA RELEASE


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


February 11, 2025


Australian Youth Orchestra celebrates First Nations artistry in groundbreaking collaboration with Ikuntji Artists

Cultural Exchange Enriches Queensland Performances and International Tour

The Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO) proudly announces a landmark collaboration with Ikuntji Artists, the first art centre established for women of the Western Desert Art Movement. In a pioneering initiative, AYO has commissioned Ikuntji Artists to create unique textile designs that will be worn by orchestra members during their Queensland performances and upcoming international tour.

Artists from the renowned Ikuntji Artists centre will travel from Alice Springs to Brisbane for a meaningful cultural exchange with AYO musicians ahead of the orchestra's Striking and Beautiful concerts in Queensland on February 15-16. This gathering will provide an opportunity for deep discussion about the creative process and cultural significance of the designs, which tell powerful stories of connection to Country and intergenerational artistry.

The collaboration features works by distinguished artists, including Alice Nampitjinpa Dixon, Doreen Lane, Eunice Napanangka Jack, Keturah Zimran OAM, Leonie Kamutu, Lisa Multa, and Mitjili Napurrula. Each design carries profound cultural meaning, from Tjilkamala Rockholes to Papa Tjukurrpa (Dog Dreaming), reflecting the rich tapestry of First Nations stories and traditions.

After meeting the musicians, Chairperson of Ikuntji Artists Roseranna Larry commented on how proud she and the Ikuntji artists are to be associated with the young musicians and how wearing the Ikuntji outfits on tour will give them reassurance: "They'll think, 'We'll be right. We're wearing designs that come from Australia.' It makes them family with us." Keturah Zimran OAM added, "Our ancestors will follow them all the way overseas, to Europe."

This project has also provided an opportunity for collaboration with The Social Outfit, a social enterprise supporting refugee and new migrant women in the fashion and textile industry. Skilled artisans from The Social Outfit have meticulously sewn the garments that will be worn by AYO musicians during their tour. Amy Low, CEO of The Social Outfit, expressed her excitement: "It’s a thrill to have the AYO perform wearing garments sewn in our Marrickville workroom. This collaboration of music and fashion proudly reflects a dynamic, creative future for arts in Australia. We are thrilled that the skills of our refugee and new migrant sewers will soon be shared on a global stage."

Highlighting the broader impact of this partnership, The Social Outfit Ambassador Camilla Schippa added: "For us, offering manufacturing services is truly a game changer because it opens up an avenue of getting more work so that we can hire more women in our manufacturing workroom."

AYO CEO Kimbali Harding emphasises the significance of this partnership: "This collaboration represents our commitment to meaningful engagement with First Nations culture and artistry. These beautiful designs will accompany our musicians throughout our Colour, Sound, Lore: 2025 International Tour across Europe, before returning home for a special performance at the Sydney Opera House."

From remote First Nations communities to the global stage, this project exemplifies the power of cultural storytelling through music and design, forging deeper artistic and cultural connections between generations, communities, and continents.

Don't miss AYO's Queensland performances:

  • Saturday 15 February, 3pm: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, Caloundra (Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country)

  • Sunday 16 February, 3pm: Brisbane City Hall, Brisbane (Meanjin)

These concerts feature British conducting sensation Kerem Hasan in his Australian debut and internationally acclaimed violinist Emily Sun, performing works by John Adams, Elena Kats-Chernin, and Richard Strauss.

Tickets for the Queensland performances are available now:

  • General: $45

  • Concession: $40

  • Under 25: $25

  • Family: $120 (2 Adults, 2 U18)

Book at www.ayo.com.au

About AYO
The Australian Youth Orchestra, celebrating over 75 years of excellence, has launched the careers of thousands of musicians who now perform with leading orchestras worldwide. AYO continues to shape the future of classical music in Australia through its commitment to exceptional training and performance opportunities.

ayo.com.au

About Ikuntji Artists
Ikuntji Artists, established as the first art centre for women of the Western Desert Art Movement, is renowned for its celebration of First Nations textiles and artistry. The centre continues to nurture both established and emerging artists, preserving and sharing important cultural stories through visual art.

ikuntji.com.au

MORE IMAGES AVAILABLE HERE. 

  • IMAGES PLEASE CREDIT: Renee Brazel

Media Contact: Samuel Cairnduff 

RESONATE Communications 

samuel.j.cairnduff@gmail.com  | 0401 396 755

 

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