City of Darwin launches the next instalment in its CITYLIFE Platform outdoor illuminated public art program this evening with the opening of a new exhibition: Arafura Connect – from Mangroves to Mudflats.
The exhibition is by popular local NT artist Aly de Groot and is comprised of 10 of her works which emulate the sea-life and coastal environments found in the proximity of the Arafura Sea, including Nightcliff Beach and Groote Eylandt.
“I am constantly inspired by the sea scape, creatures and people of both the city of Darwin and Groote Eylandt.”
“The works are about connecting to places, different and familiar. They result from my passion for protecting and preserving the sea habitat and marine life we are so lucky to be surrounded by” said de Groot.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis is thrilled that the artworks will be on display across the city in the lead up to, and during this year’s Arafura Games.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to extend the theme of the Arafura Games and really bring it to life in our public spaces.”
“Aly’s work is a celebration of our beautiful Arafura coastline and we are proud to offer a platform to showcase these works to the community and to those who will be visiting our city during the games” said the Lord Mayor.
Tonight’s opening event will be held at the Foreshore Café, Casuarina Drive, Nightcliff from 6pm – 8pm.
City of Darwin Council Alderman Robin Knox will speak at the event, which will include a Welcome to Country by Larrakia Elder Bilawara Lee.
The opening event will also include the launch of a creative collaboration by local film producer Timothy Parish and Darwin music producer Gaia Osborne, who worked with the artist on a short film to present and promote the artworks.
The 10 illuminated artworks will be on show at The Mall, Chinatown Car Park and Nightcliff Pool, until May 2019.
