Malka Art Prize Expands Recognition for Aboriginal Artists
The Malka Aboriginal Art Prize, held during NAIDOC Week in July, celebrates Aboriginal art and artists. This year’s event took place at the Yarta Purtli Art Gallery in Port Augusta.
Celebrating 15 Years of Aboriginal Art
Started by Marvin McKenzie Senior 15 years ago, the Malka Art Prize provides a platform for Aboriginal artists to exhibit their work. “Malka” means “mark” or “painting” in the local Aboriginal languages.
The 2024 exhibition attracted 55 high-calibre entries from the Far North, Mid North, and Eyre Peninsula regions and offered a $5,000 grand prize sponsored by Bungala Solar Farms (Enel Green
Power), $2,000 of art supplies sponsored by NIAA and a free solo art exhibition at the Yarta Purtli Art Gallery in 2025.
Recognising Artistic Excellence
John Banks, CEO of Port Augusta City Council, highlighted the prize’s importance in supporting and advancing the careers and visibility of Aboriginal artists.
Josephine Lennon from Ceduna Arts won the 2024 Malka Aboriginal Art Prize with her painting titled “Fire (Waru).” She also took home the People’s Choice award, as voted by visitors to the Yarta Purtli Art Gallery, where all the artworks were on display.
Joint Winners in New Artist Category
This year there was a new category for Flinders Ranges and Outback 2024 Regions of SA Award with two joint winners Margaretta Alington and Maisie Winton from Port Augusta and Davenport Community.
The 2024 Elder Winner was Verna Lawrie, a member of the Ceduna Arts group, whose painting depicted the Seven Sisters Dreaming story. Port Augusta City Council Malka 2024 Junior Award was won by Makira Buzzacott.
Mayor Linley Shine stated “The Malka Aboriginal Art Prize provides artists of all ages with a valuable opportunity for their work to be seen and appreciated, showcasing their art in a regional gallery. It also enhances Port Augusta’s reputation as a centre for Aboriginal arts and culture.”
The Malka Art Prize wouldn’t be possible without the support of sponsors including NIAA, Enel Green Power, Hallett Group, Uniting Country SA, and KU Arts.
