Indigenous arts: A cultural sustainability project

This paper discusses a vital project which functions to advise local government on the relevance of cultural sustainability and the economic aspirations of Aboriginal people engaged in cultural practice and knowledge transmission in their communities. Project findings assert that the significance of emotional and spiritual attachment to place shapes Identity cultural expression. Cultural values and connection to River and Country, and the story-work of art and cultural practice, are also found to be important media for cultural survival. The project clarified the major elements of cultural sustainability in art and cultural practice and provided a framework for ongoing local government support. United Nations covenants, local council policy and Commonwealth initiatives all have key functions in supporting Aboriginal people's right to maintain and protect culture within Country. The paper demonstrates how local government organisations can participate in supporting vital cultural activity. It asserts that decisions on cultural futures should be within the hands of Aboriginal people themselves