Art & About – Tactile Arts
Located in the grounds of the Museum and Art Gallery, the gallery and studios at Tactile Arts look out across the waters of Fannie Bay. Surrounded by trees and stretches of grass – with frequent visits by goannas, frilled neck lizards and sea eagles – this member-based, community arts organisation supports artists and artisans throughout the Darwin, Palmerston and outer Darwin regions and across the Territory. We caught up with their new General Manager Shae Fisher to find out more about this thriving art space.
When was Tactile Arts established?
The Tactile Arts building was constructed after Cyclone Tracy as a way to bring people together and rebuild community and we continue to do this in a way that is harmonious and creative.
What is the vision and core values of Tactile Arts?
Tactile Arts aims to create a living arts centre and organisation that facilitates creativity in a harmonious and supportive environment. We strive to build engagement between artists and business, government, community and the not for profit sector. We intend to provide a supportive and better-funded environment for beginning, emerging and professional artists alongside a broad workshop program, professional development and mentoring opportunities.
How do you develop your program each year?
Tactile Arts’ core yearly program includes workshops, craft fairs and exhibitions. We also run youth programs at the Palmerston Library and are continuously working towards introducing new and engaging events to provide an opportunity for Territorians to come together to experience and showcase different cultural arts mediums and participate in diverse arts activities.
What sets Tactile Arts apart?
We have an amazing array of talented artists representing a wide spectrum of mediums and we strive to provide support and mentoring for artists of all levels. We provide opportunities for members to sell their art and craft through fairs and our retail shop located in Parliament House showcases the work of our members, offering some of the finest handmade craft in the NT.
What's coming up for Tactile Arts in 2017?
We continue to provide a variety of workshops across the year – learn about pottery, jewellery making, textiles and more. Look out for our Dry season craft fairs and keep an eye on our website for exhibition details. We also have an online shop opening soon.
Tactile Arts | 19 Conacher St, Fannie Bay | Tue–Sun 10am-4pm | tactilearts.org.au
