Art on Bundjalung is a First Nations-led arts market and cultural program held on Country across the Northern Rivers region. Art on Bundjalung brings community together to connect and gather, foster cultural exchange, and celebrate the First Nations creatives that call Bundjalung Country home. Art on Bundjalung holds community and culture at its centre, creating economic opportunities for creatives, and spaces for gathering, connection and celebration. Through the sharing of culture across many forms – art, performance, food and ceremony – Art on Bundjalung platforms the strength and skill of Bundjalung artists and art.
History
Art on Bundjalung began in 2017 as a way to provide opportunities for First Nations peoples across the Northern Rivers to enhance health and wellbeing through connection with cultural arts. The project brought community members together to connect socially and to build the creative capacity of emerging artists through various art forms. A focus of the project was exploring and communicating personal and social values and giving voice to storylines through art and dialogue. Throughout all stages, art and its connection to culture and country was intrinsically linked, demonstrating its important role in enhancing the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities.
Arts Northern Rivers partnered with North Coast Primary Health Network and Lismore Regional Gallery, supported by a steering committee, to develop and deliver the project, culminating in the delivery of the first Bundjalung arts market at The Quad, in Lismore in 2019.
Following on from the success of the inaugural Art on Bundjalung, Arts Northern Rivers is proud to be working with Bundjalung artists, local councils and community partners, and local custodians to continue delivering the event across the region. In 2021 the market returned to the Lismore Quad, in October 2022 the market ventured to Kyogle, and in 2024 Art on Bundjalung was held in Dirruwung | Evans Head.
Read the Art on Bundjalung 2024 report here.
2026
This year’s free community event will be held on 21 November, 8AM–2PM at Grafton’s Corcoran Park, with the beautiful Clarence River as a backdrop to share and promote First Nations artists through market stalls, performance, fashion, food, workshops and culture.
Get Involved
First Nations artists who are based in, or have a connection to, Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl Country are invited to apply to be a part of the 2026 Art on Bundjalung in Grafton.
Stallholders
We are seeking a mix of established and emerging artists and collectives working across traditional and contemporary practices, including weaving, ceramics, carving, photography, painting, textiles and more.
Food and Drink Vendors
We are also looking for food and drink vendors who bring culturally grounded food offerings, locally sourced ingredients, and a commitment to sharing culture through cuisine. This is a space to connect with community and be part of a vibrant cultural event.
KEY DATES
Monday 27 July 5pm ||| EOI Applications Close
Monday 10 August ||| EOI’s reviewed applicants notified
Monday 30 August ||| Stall Holder fees due
Saturday 21 November ||| Event date
We look forward to having you be a part of this significant event that places community and culture at its centre.
Click here to apply.
