APY Collective Seeks Federal Art Inquiry

Why this is here: The Indigenous Art Code, established in 2009 following a federal inquiry, currently operates as a voluntary code of conduct—and is not legally enforceable.

The APY Art Centre Collective in Far North South Australia is requesting a federal inquiry into the First Nations art industry. The collective, previously involved in allegations of non-Indigenous interference in artwork, questions the effectiveness of the Indigenous Art Code. They were removed from the code in 2023 and have not been reinstated.

APY ACC chair Sandra Pumani expressed surprise at the lack of support during the prior investigations. CEO Skye O’Meara voiced concerns about governance within the IAC, specifically the presence of private art dealers on the board and potential conflicts of interest. Artists also point to a history of exploitation, with the term “carpet baggers” describing unscrupulous dealers.

The IAC was reviewed last year, and the government is currently considering the findings. While the government plans to introduce legislation protecting First Nations knowledge, the collective believes a deeper examination of industry practices is necessary to ensure accountability and transparency. The group recently launched an exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia, hoping it will inspire positive change.