2017 - The Boomalli Ten

Excerpt from exhibition catalogue - ‘Boomalli Thanks’

It’s been three decades since 1987, and Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative is celebrating its 30th year Anniversary in 2017 at the Flood Street premises, curated by Djon Mundine and supported by our skilled administration and curatorial team, including Kyra Kum-Sing, Kathryn Miller, Laura Jones and Bronwyn Bancroft.

As with any journey in the arts, there have been incredible highs and lows. We have persisted at every turn to stay open for our Artists and the wider community.

We are euphoric that this exhibition of the Founding Members can be held.

The Co-operative has survived threatened closure, potential eviction and fluctuations in popularity. But we have survived. We were a group of Ten Artists who wanted to see change, who embraced change and worked hard for it.

It is important to acknowledge Gary Foley (Aboriginal Arts Board Director 1983-1986) and Uncle Chicka Dixon (Chairperson Aboriginal Arts Board) who after meeting with Michael Riley, secured rental for 18 Meagher Street, Chippendale, which was the original birthplace of Boomalli.

There are many volunteers who have assisted us over the years, too many to name and you know who you are, this includes our Board members. We acknowledge your efforts and spirit of generosity.

As a grass roots organization, Boomalli would like to acknowledge funding support from the ATSI Board of the Australia Council for the Arts for providing us with 11 times our normal budget to produce this exhibition.

Thank you to Create NSW for their ongoing support and Annual Program Funding.

I would also like to acknowledge Allens Law Firm for securing the Flood St premises, Boomalli’s permanent home and Indigenous Land Corporation for assisting us with renovating the building.

Congratulations Boomalli. May we not just survive but thrive into the future.

- Bronwyn Bancroft -

Sourced Via Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative https://www.boomalli.com.au/about-1/