Modern addition for arts precinct

A NEW addition to the Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct could be a game-changer for the township’s creative and tourism communities.

The precinct opened a gateway building on Friday that provides a seamless connection to the museum, art centre and a future performing arts centre.

Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said the Queensland government had invested $600,000 in the refurbishment.

“Renovations to the precinct have transformed the experience for visitors sharing in our region’s rich Indigenous history and culture,” Mr Pitt said.

Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct manager Simone Arnol said the new building would provide some new space for exhibitions.

“Some of our exhibits shared the floor with priceless objects in the museum but now we have a dedicated space where artists can showcase their work,” Ms Arnol said.

“This very modern building is the first point of contact for visitors who will be able to enjoy more of Yarrabah’s stories and culture.”

On top of the opening, two new exhibitions were launched and will run to the end of January.

In the Menmuny Museum, Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow is a tribute to the two Yarrabah men, Dr Darryl Murgha and Dr Bernie Singleton, who laid the foundation for future cultural heritage and land management.

“This exhibition is a tribute to their ongoing and important gathering and databasing of past elders, communities and their cultural heritage engagement,” she said.

“The best way to preserve your cultural heritage, whatever it may be, is to share it with others.”

The second exhibition, From the Ground Up, was led by master potter Cornelius (Connie) Richards and showcases work from the early 1970s to the present.

“Connie is passing on his knowledge about ceramics on to the next generation,” Ms Arnol said.