The 2024–25 Mirnu Ceramics Program, delivered by Ku Arts in partnership with the Department for Correctional Services, was a culturally grounded, skills-based initiative designed to support Aboriginal men in custody at Yatala Labour Prison. Part of the broader Aboriginal Artists in Residencies (AAR) program, the 10-week initiative offered hands-on ceramic workshops, led by artist Ashlee Hopkins alongside respected First Nations artists Cedric Varcoe and Patrick Ferguson.

Kokatha staff, supported by Amandine Caire, designed and developed a step-by-step “How to Stretch and Prime Canvas” guide. This resource is now helping local artists prepare high-quality works for submission to the upcoming 2025 Malka Art Award.

Our open-access art studio in Adelaide CBD offers First Nations Artists an opportunity to access free art materials, a space to work, and 1:1 support relating to any aspect of their art practice. The Ku Arts studio at The Mill started the year with a flurry of activity.

Our Art Centre Program provides comprehensive support to art centres across South Australia. Through both on-site and off-site support, we aim to strengthen the capacity and sustainability of these vital cultural hubs, ensuring they continue to thrive and showcase the rich artistic heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The third Elevate workshop was led by Mardawi Sister Weavers, including master weaver and Ngarrindjeri cultural leader Aunty Ellen Trevorrow, alongside Bessie Rigney. Artists attending included Cedric Varcoe, Kristal and Dee Matthews.

In October 2024, Ku Arts assisted 38 artists in exhibiting their works through the Digital Tarnanthi Art Fair. Our support included managing artwork cataloguing, photographing the pieces and packaging sales. We provide these services free of charge, ensuring that 100% of the profits go directly to the artists. 

Our open-access art studio in Adelaide CBD offers First Nations Artists an opportunity to access free art materials, a space to work, and 1:1 support relating to any aspect of their art practice.

In August 2024, eight South Australian First Nation artists participated in the Ku Arts Activate Program. The group travelled to Larrakia Country to attend the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, The National Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Art Awards, satellite exhibitions and events, including Country to Couture and Salon De Refuses.

Ku Arts hosted two impactful cultural camps in collaboration with Ernabella Arts, that brought together artists and community members. At Wamikata Sand dune, participants engaged in traditional practices such as cooking, weaving, painting, and Inma (performing songs and dances), deepening their connection to culture. The Christmas Tree Hill retreat provided a peaceful environment where artists could reflect, rejuvenate, and enhance their creative work.

Jamfactory jewellery associates hosted a hands-on two-day workshop that aimed to elevate participants’ jewellery designs through hand-made findings, using quality metals to make earring hooks and frames to weave onto.