Australian Youth Orchestra
Collaboration with Ikuntji Artists
This year, we are proud to collaborate with Ikuntji Artists, a not-for-profit First Nations Arts Centre renowned for its bold textiles and rich storytelling. As the first art centre established for women of the Western Desert Art Movement, Ikuntji Artists continues to champion artistic excellence and cultural heritage.
AYO musicians will perform in garments featuring the Ikuntji Artists’ vibrant designs on stages across Australia and Europe. These patterns honour the diversity of First Nations peoples and their deep connection to Country, carrying stories that span generations—where tradition and contemporary artistry meet. Each design represents a story, many of which are women’s dreaming pointing to the central role of strong female leadership among Ikuntji artists. Meticulously hand-screened by Publisher Textiles and Papers, and fashioned by The Social Outfit, these vibrant designs will shine from the stage, matching the colour and energy of the orchestra.
We were honoured to welcome two Ikuntji artists, Keturah Zimran OAM and Roseranna Larry along with Ikuntji Centre Director Dr Chrischona Schmidt, on the first day of rehearsals for our upcoming concerts in Queensland. Keturah, who received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the visual arts in 2023, is an internationally acclaimed artist whose work is included in the Parliament House Collection. Western Arrernte, Warlpiri, and Luritja woman, Roseranna Larry, is the Chairperson of Ikuntji Artists and has exhibited work at fashion shows across Europe.
Each design carries deep cultural significance—not just in its visual storytelling but in the way it is received. When an artist completes a design, those present sing and dance to honour its creation, a ritual that reflects the enduring traditions woven into these works.
“This collaboration represents our commitment to meaningful engagement with First Nations culture and artistry. Here in Queensland and as we embark on our international tour across Europe culminating in a special homecoming performance at the Sydney Opera House, we are proud to showcase the work of these exceptional artists on the world stage. The beautiful designs, together with the power and energy of the orchestra encapsulate the vibrancy and creativity of Australia. We are incredibly proud to present the orchestra in this way.” – Kimbali Harding, CEO
Dr Chrischona Schmidt, Director of the Ikuntji Arts Centre says: “This groundbreaking partnership is the first of its kind, fusing the talents of Australian musicians with Indigenous Australian visual artists. It highlights the exciting opportunities for both art forms to cross-fertilize, learn from, and support each other. Having their work featured on the world stage by talented young musicians of the AYO provides invaluable exposure and opens doors to future opportunities.”
After meeting the musicians, Roseranna commented how proud they are to be associated with the young musicians and that wearing the Ikuntji outfits on tour will give them reassurance: “They’ll think, ‘We’ll be right. We’re wearing designs that come from Australia’. It makes them family with us”. Ketura added, “Our ancestors will follow them all the way overseas, to Europe.”
Through this collaboration, we celebrate the powerful intersection of music and visual art—connecting communities, amplifying voices, and honouring Australia’s cultural heritage.
Below are the artists featured in our upcoming concerts.
Alice Nampitjinpa Dixon
Alice Nampitjinpa Dixon, born in 1943 near Talaapi, is a celebrated painter and cultural leader. Before dedicating herself to art, Alice spent years teaching young girls the traditions and dances of desert communities. Her vibrant works, including Tjilkamala Rockholes and Trees at Talaapi, honour her father’s land and her deep connection to the Western Desert. Through her artistry, Alice preserves stories of her childhood and the cultural lore passed down through generations.
Doreen Lane
Doreen Lane is a skilled artist and jewellery maker who paints women’s hunting stories and creates jewellery from hand-painted seeds and gum nuts. Her design, Bush Trip, depicts cherished memories of family trips from Papunya to Ulumbauru. Doreen has been instrumental in leading Ikuntji Artists as a former director, contributing to the continuation of its vibrant legacy.
Eunice Napanangka Jack
Born in 1940 in the Sir Frederick Ranges, Eunice Napanangka Jack carries vivid memories of her family’s journey across the desert to Haasts Bluff. Her design Kuruyultu is deeply connected to the rock hole of the same name in her birth country, as well as the Tjukurrpa (Dreaming) associated with it. Over her decades-long practice, she transforms personal history and cultural storytelling into strikingly beautiful works that capture the spirit and essence of her ancestral land.
Keturah Zimran OAM
A distinguished Luritja and Pintupi artist, Keturah Zimran comes from a lineage of renowned creators, including her grandmother Narputta Nangala Jugadai. Keturah’s Puli Puli Rocks captures the changing hues of the rock formations at Haasts Bluff and Karrkurrutintja. Her work reflects her pride in her heritage and connection to Country.
Leonie Kamutu
Leonie Kamutu, born in the bush at Ikunytji (Haasts Bluff) in 1947, is deeply rooted in her family’s traditions. Her Papa Tjukurrpa design tells the Dog Dreaming story of her father’s country near Kintore, reflecting the sacred stories of her ancestry. Leonie’s work honours the cultural teachings passed down through her family.
Lisa Multa
Raised at Kungkayunti (Brown’s Bore), Lisa Multa’s art expresses her connection to the sandhills and traditions of her home. Her design, Tali at Kungkayunti, offers a bird’s-eye view of the tali tali (sandhills), which hold both personal and cultural significance for her family. Lisa’s creativity celebrates her heritage while sharing stories of life in the Central Desert.
Mitjili Napurrula
Mitjili Napurrula is renowned for her bold, vibrant depictions of the women’s side of the Tjukurrpa (Dreaming) story. Her design, Uwulkari – Watiya Tjuta, features acacia trees used for ceremonial spears, inspired by motifs her mother drew in the sand. As a finalist in several prestigious art prizes, Mitjili’s work embodies the artistic traditions of the Western Desert and her connection to Ikuntji.