BOGGABILLA’S Karlene Duncan is one of 10 indigenous artists chosen to participate in the prestigious Indigenous Leadership Program at the National Gallery of Australia.
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The program sees artists or art professionals chosen to travel to Canberra to immerse themselves in gallery life for 10 days.
While there they learn all about working at the National Gallery, explore the indigenous arts sector, participate in networking events and receive guidance and mentorship.
Rachel Maza, actor and director of Ilbijerri Theatre Company, and contemporary artist Jonathan Jones have also joined the program as ambassadors and will work closely with program participants.
Karlene, who has been the coordinator at the Euraba Paper Company since August, said the program was “full on” but a great opportunity for people from all over the country to meet in one place, share ideas and gain insightful information to take back to their communities.
Karlene was raised in Boggabilla and Toomelah and lived in Moree for 20 years.
“I worked for the government for 24 years. When the opportunity came up to go home to work I took it,” Karlene said.
“When I was approached about the job I was hesitant to take it because I didn’t know what was behind the door but now I think if you ever get an opportunity you should take it.
“I didn’t realise how much art effects the way we feel.
“People tell so many stories through their pictures.
“And it’s such a huge industry with so many different career paths.
“We’ve been learning about all sorts of things including the conservation of artworks. If they get an old piece from overseas it goes into quarantine.
“There’s a big process to ensure the preservation of the artworks. It’s amazing,” she said.
“This trip has been a real eye opener.”
When Karlene returns home from her trip she hopes to introduce a number of programs at Euraba including an after school workshop for children.
“It will be a good way to give the kids an identity and for them to learn about their culture,” she said.
“And it gives them something to do after school.”