The Larrakia people are the traditional owners of the Darwin region. Indigenous art work is dotted around in many places – not just in galleries and museums. We unexpectedly came across this beautifully painted silo in the boondocks.
Often referring to themselves as ‘Saltwater People,’ they had a vibrant traditional society based on a close relationship with the sea and trade with neighbouring groups. The art work is rich with symbolism. Clinton Gaykamangu, a Larrakia artist, says that ‘… I want people to understand the symbols in my art that I am allowed to share with people, some meaning I cannot share as it is sacred. When someone purchases my artwork I need them to understand the meaning of that piece, as it more than just painting, it is the law, discipline, self-esteem, world view and creating the balance of life between wrong and right.’
The buildings here are very colourful. If nothing else, many of the apartment blocks feature splashes of block colour, giving a feeling of tropical vibrancy.
Darwin’s first street art festival The Walls that Talk, took place in October 2017. The intitiative saw leading Australian artists collaborating with local artist to paint eight Darwin CBD buildings and walls with images unique to the Territory.
It, of course, is not the only urban art that captures the eye and imagination as you travel around this city and its outskirts.
There is much here to delight the senses.
© Raili Tanska
Steps for Peace
Creativity is contagious, pass it on. Albert Einstein
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Gorgeous!
I love street, and your pictures highlight some great ones.
They are so colourful 🙂
You are having a great time aren’t you? Fabulous.
We’ve seen a lot, that’s for sure. Two more days. Marc is not working so we can spend time touring with him before we leave Monday morning.
Love street art. How did I not see any of this when I was up there.
Love them all apart from frying Nemo, poor Nemo 🐟
Nemo would not even be a snack size feast! I had barramundi 🙂
Thanks Raili, these are fantastic artworks.
They are quite something !
This street art is truly art! It reminds me of certain parts of Brooklyn, New York, where buildling walls are filled with these wonderful expressions as well. A perfect canvas.
so muchbbetter than mortar and bricks
I agree!!!!!!!
What a delightful, delightful place. I would look at those all day.
I love street out though I’m not sure if I want to fry Nemo or give him a squishy hug 🙂
Interesting name for a fish and chips shop 🙂
Love , love all the beautiful artwork!
Me too !
Just awesome!
Indeed 🙂
😉
Very nice. Sure beats looking a a blank wall.
Fabulous!!!!!!!
very nice and uplifting artwork.
Brightens up the streets