NAIDOC Week at the MCA: For Our Elders

Main image: Vincent Namatjira, P.P.F. (Past-Present-Future) (detail), 2021. Synthetic polymer paint. Commissioned by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2021.
Supported by Veolia Environmental Services. Image courtesy the artist; Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney; and Iwantja Arts, South Australia © the artist. Photograph: Jacquie Manning 

The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is honouring NAIDOC Week with a collection of welcoming spaces and inclusive events designed to acknowledge and celebrate this year's theme: For Our Elders

The theme highlights the integral role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders have as significant cultural knowledge holders, as well as trailblazers, nurturers, advocates, teachers, survivors, and leaders. The MCA is at the forefront of showcasing the rich history and culture of First Nations peoples, as well as their myriad achievements.

The MCA will host a full program of NAIDOC Week events and activities including some family-focused highlights that are open to kids of all ages.

NAIDOC Week at the MCA: Highlights for Families

Image: Maria Josette Orsto tunga & print workshop, Being Tiwi programs, 2016.
Photograph: Maja Baska 

Making Time: For Our Elders

An artist-led intergenerational workshop hosted by the MCA Youth Committee, Making Time: For Our Elders offers a beautiful opportunity to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and cultures.

This event will feature a weaving workshop with Wiradjuri, Yuin, and Gadigal (Dharug -Boorongberigal clan) master weaver Nadeena Dixon, plus hands-on activities including badge-making and window poetry to encourage families to contemplate your connections to Country.

Where:   Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, NCCL: Level 3 Creative Studios
When:    Saturday 8 July 2023 | 1 – 4 pm
Cost:     FREE - No booking required

Family Space: Story Tree

Unearth the powerful storytelling potential of plants with this creative activity for all ages inspired by The National 4 exhibition. At Family Space: Story Tree you can relax beneath a canopy of gum tree branches and be enthralled and inspired by enchanting tales about plant life. You can then weave yourself into the storytelling collective, adding your own drawings or written reflections to the budding Story Tree. Come back to witness how the magical Story Tree flourishes!

Where:   Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, NCCL: Level 3 Creative Studios
When:    Every weekend and throughout the school holidays
Cost:     FREE - No booking required

Elders Community Lounge 

Creating a comfortable space dedicated specifically to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to drop in for a break between programs, the Elders Community Lounge will have tea, coffee and light refreshments on offer, in addition to a range of art-making materials. Children are welcome in the lounge.

Where:   Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Waterside Room: Ground Floor
When:    2, 3, 5 & 6 July 2023 | 10 am – 2 pm
Cost:     FREE - No booking required

NAIDOC Week at the MCA

The MCA welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its programs and services accessible to everyone.

Where:   Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Tallawoladah, Gadigal Country, 140 George Street, The Rocks
When:    Sunday 2 – Sunday 9 July 2023
Cost:     General admission is FREE and includes most NAIDOC Week  events

For more information and to plan your visit, see NAIDOC Week at the MCA: For Our Elders.

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