Experience the rich culture of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art, and be amazed by the stories behind the region’s history and heritage.
Be inspired by the wealth and diversity of Darwin’s art, culture and heritage. Discover the traditional Dreamtime stories behind the region’s landscapes and wildlife. Admire the local art, both traditional and contemporary, and learn the stories behind the region’s history.
Aboriginal culture
Learn about the Dreamtime stories behind the region’s landscape and wildlife from the land’s traditional owners. Discover the dreaming of the frog from the Larrakia people in Darwin, explore the ancient culture of nearby national parks, and hear creation stories and songs on the Tiwi Islands. See the region’s Aboriginal art – paintings, carvings, ceramics and weaving – at locally owned and run art centres and galleries in Darwin and on the Tiwi Islands.
Explore art & culture
Local art
Darwin’s art scene provides the perfect frame for the region’s artworks. See breakthrough modern art in small, contemporary galleries, admire investment pieces in glossy commercial galleries, and see traditional and contemporary works – from traditional dot paintings to bold screen prints – from local and remote communities in Aboriginal art galleries. Get a broad overview of local art at the Museum and Gallery of the Northern Territory, or get a close look at Aboriginal art in the making with a visit to the Tiwi Islands.
Heritage
Darwin and the Tiwi Islands’ stories of survival will leave you astonished. Step into the stone buildings of yore in Darwin for a sense of pioneering persistence. Visit the war museums and relics to grasp the danger and loss Darwin faced on the frontline during WWII, and step into the Cyclone Tracy exhibit at the Musuem and Gallery of the Northern Territory to feel the devastating effects of one of Australia’s worst natural disasters. Stop at local museums to learn about the fascinating multicultural history and heritage that built the rich, diverse region that survives today.
