First Nations art collective calls for industry inquiry to protect artists
The APY Art Centre Collective is calling for a federal inquiry into the Indigenous art sector, citing concerns over unethical practices and the effectiveness of the current voluntary code of conduct. The collective, previously involved in a 2023 scandal over non-Indigenous individuals producing Aboriginal-style art, was removed from the Indigenous Art Code and has not been reinstated. Leaders argue that the current regulatory body is ill-equipped to prevent exploitation and conflicts of interest within the industry.
- ▪The APY Art Centre Collective is urging the federal government to launch an inquiry into ethical conduct in the Indigenous art industry.
- ▪The collective was removed from the Indigenous Art Code in 2023 following allegations of non-Indigenous individuals painting on works credited to Aboriginal artists.
- ▪The Indigenous Art Code, a voluntary body established in 2009, does not have legal enforcement power and has faced criticism for failing to prevent exploitation.
- ▪APY ACC leaders have raised concerns about governance and conflicts of interest within the Indigenous Art Code board, which includes private art dealers.
- ▪Past inquiries in 2007 and 2018 highlighted issues such as 'carpet bagging' and exploitative practices in the Indigenous art trade.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
APY Art Centre Collective calls for federal inquiry into First Nations art industryIBy Isabella CarboneTopic:Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ArtSun 17 May 2026 at 7:33amSun 17 May 2026 at 7:33amSun 17 May 2026 at 7:33amThe collective has art centres throughout regional South Australia and a studio gallery in Adelaide. (ABC News: Ashlin Blieschke)In short: A First Nations art collective is calling for a federal inquiry into the Indigenous art sector to address claims of unethical conduct in the industry.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).