Injalak Arts and Crafts Centre – Displaying Australia’s rich heritage

Australia’s aboriginal people have a rich culture and heritage that enthrals people from around the world. While many of the country’s traditional owners have been displaced, the Kunwinjku people stay connected to their home.

East of Darwin, near the Kakadu National Park lies the Kunwunjku community of Oenpelli. It acts as a gateway to the vast indigenous lands that spread out beyond it.

A private visit to these lands requires a permit that must be approved by the Northern Lands Council in Jabiru. These permits can take up to 4 weeks to process. However, group tours are able to organise these permits far quicker. This system is in place to ensure the preservation of the area and the Kunwinjku tribe. This means that a visit to Oenpelli is a somewhat exclusive opportunity. Kunwinjku people welcome you to their land and will share with you their culture.

In Oenpelli you will find the Injalak Arts and Crafts Centre. This organisation supports the production of quality Aboriginal art and provides a unique experience for all who have the good fortune of visiting. The centre will allow you to browse through the wide selection of artworks, paintings, and traditional crafts like the didgeridoo. What really makes the centre special, however, is the chance to watch the artists. See painters and artisans as they run through the intriguing process of creation, carving, painting and weaving. The wide range of fine art in a variety of different styles and mediums is a true reflection of the skill of the Kunwinjku people.

Inspiration

Australian Indigenous art is the oldest unbroken tradition of art in the world. From ancient rock paintings to modern-day canvas, this incredible custom has withstood the test of time. At the Injalak Arts and Crafts Centre, the talented artists bring the simplistic style of rock painting to life. They find inspiration from their connection to the ancestors and the ancient Dreaming stories. On a trip to Oenpelli, you will have the chance to visit some of the surrounding rock paintings sites. Here you will get a broader perspective on the roots of this incredible tradition.

The Injalak Arts and Crafts Centre is an awe-inspiring destination where you will learn about the Indigenous Australian people’s proud heritage and have the unique opportunity of immersing yourself in an Aboriginal community.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.