Presented as part of Desert Mob, one of the nation’s most anticipated Aboriginal art events, this year’s Marketplace will be held on Saturday 9 September 2023.
A large buzzing art fair, Desert Mob Marketplace will bring together paintings, punu, ceramics, Tjanpi weaving, sculpture, clothing, textiles and merchandise from over 30 Aboriginal-owned art centres across Central Australia. Marketplace offers Desert Mob attendees the opportunity to acquire works directly from the artists that created them. The day includes demonstrations, workshops, performances and other activations across the precinct, along with food and coffee.
Presented by Desart, Desert Mob is an exhibition, symposium, market, public programs, satellite events and activations across Mparntwe (Alice Springs). With a history of 30 years, and counting, Desert Mob will open 7 September 2023 and run until 22 October 2023.
You can view the full program and purchase tickets to select events at desertmob.com
Desart supports its extensive membership of Aboriginal-owned art centres throughout Central Australia and the wider Central and Western Desert region, providing professional development opportunities, accredited training and workshops. They help their members build capacity and practise sustainable business models in selling and commissioning their art.
For more information about Desart see the website.
The Desert Mob Marketplace takes place for one day only (9 September 2023). This large art market at Araluen Arts Centre is a great opportunity to buy ethically sourced contemporary Aboriginal art, such as paintings, punu, ceramics, Tjanpi weaving, sculptures, clothing, jewellery, textiles and homewares.
Not to be confused with the type of marketplace where you can haggle, it’s important to be courteous of the artists and understand that their artwork is an extension of ancient culture, passed down through millenia. Asking questions about the artwork is encouraged, but don’t be dismayed if the artist doesn’t share a lot of detail – sacred Dreaming stories are often contained within artwork, and cannot always be shared.
All income from sales goes to the art centres, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet and chat with artists selling their work. Get there early, as crowds of locals will also be here in search of ethical, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Desert Mob Marketplace
The Desert Mob Exhibition (7 September – 22 October 2023) is an unmissable gallery experience at Araluen Arts Centre. This year will be no exception, as it features hundreds of new, innovative artworks from emerging and established artists who continue to transform and revolutionise arts and cultural expression. Join the opening night festivities or view the exhibition at your own pace over the following few months.
Desert Mob Gallery Exhibition
Use your daylight hours wisely and take some day trips through the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. You’ll be able to take a dip in a desert gorge waterhole and marvel at the extreme rock formations and dry riverbeds. Glide gently over Alice Springs with views of the sunrise from a hot air balloon, or visit the Alice Springs Desert Park, where you’ll learn about the native plants and animals of the Red Centre.
There is also a range of museums and historical sites within walking and cycling distance in and around Alice Springs. The Old Gaol and the Central Australian Aviation Museum have fantastic collections that will take you on a trip back in time.
There is a range of accommodation within Alice Springs. There are options to suit every budget and range, from family-friendly to solo travellers.
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