Desart Inc

Desart Inc is the peak arts body representing over 30 Central Australian Aboriginal Arts and Crafts centres. These member art centres are community-based enterprises, owned and governed by Aboriginal people, providing significant economic, social, and cultural benefits to their communities. Desart is dedicated to supporting these art centres to ensure their autonomy, sustained growth, and stability within Central Australian Aboriginal communities.

Mission and Vision

Desart’s mission centres on the principle of “Culture First”, recognising culture as the foundation of all its work. The organisation is committed to respecting the cultural diversity of Central Australian Aboriginal peoples and supporting the independence and autonomy of its member art centres. Desart operates ethically and transparently, ensuring all initiatives are based on consultation with Aboriginal artists and art centre staff. Its vision is to balance Aboriginal cultural expression with effective governance and business practices, fostering a thriving arts sector that honours tradition while engaging with broader markets.

Main Objectives

• Advocacy: Representing member art centres on external boards, committees, and at art fairs to amplify their voice.
• Business Support: Promoting best practice management through programs, databases, and annual conferences.
• Training and Employment: Enhancing employability and career pathways for Aboriginal people in the arts.
• Promotion and Marketing: Showcasing Central Australian Aboriginal arts and culture through exhibitions, prizes, and targeted campaigns.

Benefiting Groups

Desart primarily benefits Aboriginal artists, art workers, and their communities by supporting art centres that are owned and governed by Aboriginal people. These centres act as cultural hubs, sustaining traditions and providing economic opportunities across Central Australia.

Types of Services and Activities

• Advocacy and representation on industry and government platforms.
• Capacity building through professional development, training, and mentoring.
• Support for infrastructure and resource acquisition for art centres.
• Organisation of major events such as the Desert Mob exhibition and artist talks.
• Marketing and promotion of Aboriginal art locally, nationally, and internationally.