New Tarnanthi exhibition showcases powerful First Nations art from regional SA
A new First Nations exhibition, Woven within Stars, curated by proud Wangkangurru woman Marika Davies, opens at Yarta Purtli Art Gallery in Port Augusta on September 20, before travelling to Fabrik in Lobethal later this year.
The exhibition brings together new and existing works by nine Aboriginal artists from across northern South Australia and Port Lincoln (Galinyala), spanning painting, sculpture, ceramics, glasswork and woodcarving. Each work tells its own story of culture, connection and Country.
Tarnanthi Regional Curator Marika Davies said the exhibition is a chance for artists – many of them Elders – to share stories rooted in memory, Country and connection. “For some, this exhibition marks a return to artmaking after many years. It’s their moment to shine, to share their stories with us, and to leave something for the generations still to come.”
Who is behind Woven within Stars?
Curated by Davies – Tarnanthi Regional Curator and proud Wangkangurru woman – the show is the second regionally curated Tarnanthi exhibition, following the Ruby Award-winning Saltbush Country. Regional Tarnanthi is a partnership between Country Arts SA and the Art Gallery of South Australia, with backing from BHP, helping bring First Nations art to regional communities.
Country Arts SA Chief Executive Anthony Peluso said, “This is more than an art exhibition – it’s a platform that amplifies First Nations voices and showcases the extraordinary talent across regional South Australia. Woven within Stars represents the very best of regional creative collaboration. It’s powerful, personal and deeply connected to place. We’re incredibly proud to support this exhibition and to see Marika lead her second Regional Tarnanthi.”
What’s happening on the opening weekend of Woven within Stars?
Opening Night – Friday September 19
The exhibition opens from 5pm-9pm at Yarta Purtli Art Gallery. Entry is free and all are welcome.
Regional Tarnanthi Art Market – Saturday September 20
From 10am-4pm at The Barracks, First Nations artists from the North, Far North and West Coast will sell their works. All proceeds go directly to the artists, with food and coffee available on site.
Panel Discussion – Saturday September 20
From 11am-12pm, curator Marika Davies will host a free conversation about the exhibition and the artists behind it.
Stories in Song – Sunday September 21
At 3pm, the Port Augusta Uniting Church will host Stories in Song – a performance by Nathan May with violinist Julian Ferraretto and the Adelaide Baroque String Quartet, blending country, folk and Baroque traditions.
When and where is Woven within Stars showing?
Port Augusta
September 20 – November 16 2025
Yarta Purtli Art Gallery, Beauchamps Lane
Lobethal
Fabrik, Lobethal Road
November 30 2025 – March 1 2026
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