Acknowledgement of Country

Central Craft acknowledges the Arrernte people of Mparntwe as the traditional custodians of the land in which we work, create and connect. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging, and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Their deep ongoing connection to this land, its waters, and culture has shaped and sustained Mparntwe for thousands of years.

Situated within the Araluen Cultural Precinct, Central Craft recognises the sacred significance of this site, including Yaye (Big Sister Hill), Yaye Akweke (Little Sister Hill), and the 300-year-old corkwood tree at the heart of the Araluen Arts Centre. These places, part of the Two Sisters Dreaming story, remind us of the enduring strength of Arrernte culture and our responsibility to respect and protect them. 

We are honoured to work alongside Arrernte artists and families, learning from their knowledge and contributions to the creative community. As Doris Stuart shared at the opening of Apmere Mparntwe - The Australian Ceramics Triennale in July 2022, true respect for Country involves far more than just ceremonial welcomes, "it requires deep listening and understanding of the sacred connections between people and land".

We remain committed to ensuring Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and celebrated, fostering meaningful relationships and walking together with First Nations peoples in all that we do.

Sovereignty was never ceded. This always was - is - and always will be, Aboriginal Land.