Paint, Dine & Learn – NAIDOC Week Experience
Description
Join us for a creative and cultural experience as we celebrate NAIDOC Week and recognise the rich histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through art, storytelling and food.
This year's NAIDOC Week theme, "50 Years of Deadly" marks a significant milestone in celebrating the voices, resilience, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is a tribute to the Elders who stood firm, the organisers who created space, the artists who transformed resistance into expression, and the communities who continue to keep culture strong, generation after generation.
Facilitated by the Djookanka Sisters, this interactive experience provides an opportunity to learn directly from Aboriginal women as they share cultural knowledge, stories, and artistic traditions in a welcoming and engaging environment.
During this 1.5-hour session, participants will explore the history and significance of Aboriginal art, learning about traditional symbols, storytelling, and cultural expression. Guided by visual examples, photographs, and stories, guests can choose an artwork that inspires them and create their own painted canvas to take home.
All materials are provided, including canvases, paints, brushes, and easels, making this a welcoming experience for all skill levels. Along the way, participants will learn how art has been used for generations to share stories, knowledge, and connection to Country.
Guests will also enjoy a tasting experience featuring foods from Gather Foods, offering an opportunity to connect with culture through both art and cuisine.
What's Included:
· 1.5-hour facilitated workshop
· Canvas, paints, brushes, and easel provided
· Introduction to Aboriginal art history and symbolism
· Visual guides, stories, and artwork inspiration
· Food tasting experience from Gather Foods
· Take-home artwork
No previous painting experience is required—just bring your creativity and a willingness to learn, connect, and celebrate NAIDOC Week.
FAQs
- Who can attend this workshop?
This workshop is open to everyone over the age of 16 who would like to learn, create, and celebrate NAIDOC Week in a respectful and welcoming environment.
- Do I need any painting experience?
No prior painting experience is required. The workshop is designed for all skill levels, and facilitators will provide guidance throughout the session.
- What will I create during the workshop?
Participants will create their own painted canvas inspired by Aboriginal art, storytelling, and cultural themes. Your completed artwork is yours to take home.
- What materials are provided?
All materials are included, including a canvas, paints, brushes, easel, and other supplies needed for the painting activity.
- What will I learn during the session?
Participants will learn about the history and significance of Aboriginal art, traditional symbols, storytelling practices, and the role of art in sharing knowledge and connection to Country.
- Who are the Djookanka Sisters?
The workshop is facilitated by the Djookanka Sisters, who share cultural knowledge, stories, and artistic traditions through engaging and interactive experiences. Find out more about them at https://djookanka-sisters.myshopify.com/
- What does the food tasting include?
Guests will enjoy a selection of culturally inspired canapés from Gather Foods, including:
Wattle seed damper with native thyme cream cheese (V)
Kangaroo and sweet potato mini pies
Frangipani macadamia tartlets with quandong jam (CN/GF)
Please note that menu items may be subject to change based on seasonal availability and supplier requirements.
Dietary Key:
V = Vegetarian
CN = Contains Nuts
GF = Gluten Free
- Is this workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes. The session is designed to be accessible, supportive, and enjoyable for participants of all experience levels.
- How long is the workshop?
The workshop runs for approximately 1.5 hours, with a spare 30 minutes to enjoy food
- What should I bring?
Just bring yourself, your creativity, and a willingness to learn. All workshop materials are provided. Bring spare clothes in case the paint gets messy
- Can I take the artwork home?
Yes. Participants will create their own artwork inspired by the themes and learning shared during the workshop. The facilitators will provide guidance to ensure the activity is respectful and educational.
- What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC Week is a national celebration that recognises and honours the histories, cultures, achievements, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Find out more at https://www.naidoc.org.au/
- What does this year's NAIDOC Week theme, "50 Years of Deadly", mean?
The 2026 theme celebrates 50 years of NAIDOC Week and recognises the strength, resilience, achievements, and cultural contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while honouring the Elders, organisers, artists, and communities who have shaped this journey. Find out more https://www.naidoc.org.au/about/naidoc-theme
- Will there be opportunities to ask questions?
Yes. Participants are encouraged to engage with the facilitators, ask questions, and learn through discussion in a respectful and supportive environment.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
