Mimi Aboriginal Art and Craft is located in Katherine, Northern Territory
Representing artists from the expansive Katherine region, which covers an impressive 380,000 square kilometres, Mimi captures the diverse essence of this vast area. This region stretches from the Tanami Desert in the west to the Western Australian Kimberley border and extends to the saltwater coastlines and freshwater river country of Arnhem Land. The artworks showcased at Mimi reflect this rich diversity, with each piece embodying the unique styles and mediums indigenous to these lands.
As a 100% Aboriginal community-owned not-for-profit art centre, Mimi offers visitors a unique and enriching experience. Guests can watch and engage with artists as they paint and create, gaining insights into the stories and traditions behind each piece. The centre takes pride in providing a sustainable way for artists to sell their work and an ethical way for guests to purchase authentic Indigenous art. The diversity of the artworks at Mimi is as vast as the lands and cultures they represent, each piece telling a story of its origin.
Mimi Aboriginal Art and Craft is committed to several core objectives. Economically, it ensures Indigenous artists receive an equitable share of proceeds from sales, providing them with a reliable source of income. Surpluses are reinvested to support regional artists, helping to sustain and grow the vibrant artistic community. The centre also focuses on delivering high-quality, authentic products to the marketplace, ensuring that each piece is a true representation of Aboriginal culture and artistry.
Socially, Mimi provides a supportive and respectful workplace environment for artists. This nurturing atmosphere allows artists to thrive, offering resources, training, and encouragement to emerging talents. The centre facilitates connections between artists and the broader community, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal art and culture. By creating opportunities for interaction and learning, Mimi helps bridge the gap between Indigenous artists and the wider public.
Culturally, Mimi is dedicated to maintaining, reinvigorating, and strengthening Indigenous culture through both traditional and contemporary artistic expression. The centre plays a crucial role in preserving and protecting the rights of intellectual property, copyright, and cultural heritage, ensuring that the cultural significance of each piece is respected and honoured. Artists at Mimi are encouraged to explore their creativity while staying true to the stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
The mission of Mimi Aboriginal Art and Craft goes beyond simply selling art. It is about sustaining a cultural legacy and providing a platform for Aboriginal artists to share their stories with the world. By supporting Mimi, visitors contribute to the preservation and celebration of Aboriginal culture, helping to ensure that these rich traditions continue to inspire and flourish for generations to come.
In the township of Katherine, Mimi Aboriginal Art and Craft stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Aboriginal culture. It is a place where the stories of the past are vividly brought to life through art, providing a window into the rich and diverse heritage of the region. Each piece of art is more than just a visual delight; it is a narrative of cultural significance, a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Aboriginal people. Through its dedication to ethical practices and cultural preservation, Mimi continues to shine as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural integrity.