TAFE NSW Cessnock and Maitland has launched a new course focused on developing cultural art skills for a career in the growing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts sector.

The Certificate II in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts is equipping students with the hands-on practical skills that they need to preserve and make meaning of their important history through drawings, prints, paintings and sculptures. 

TAFE NSW Creative Design and Ideation Head Teacher, David Trout said it was incredibly important for people across the Hunter region to have access to Aboriginal cultural training of this nature. 

“Aboriginal art is booming, and there is a high level of interest both nationally and internationally for commissioned works and exhibition pieces in galleries. Students may also find that the hands-on practical skills and knowledge they learn through the course could lead to work in community arts, cultural development and jobs as cultural tour guides. 

“Aboriginal people have the opportunity to tell their story through art, and this is exactly what the course aims to achieve, preserving history and helping Aboriginal people regain their sense of belonging.” 

TAFE NSW Cultural Arts student and proud Kamilaroi woman, Rebecca Slater, studied the course and said she enjoyed learning about how to share her personal journey through art. 

“Art is important to our culture, and we communicate through art; we learnt about how to tell our unique stories through different images, styles, and colour. 

“Some of our mob are lost, and I hope to use the skills I learn through the course to bring something back to them and give them a piece of their identity back. 

“I’ve worked in mental health, and I believe helping the mob to find their identity through art will give them a sense of peace and connection.” 

The course commenced on 3 February at TAFE NSW Maitland and 4 February at TAFE NSW Cessnock. For more information on the Certificate II in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601. 

Media contact: Kelly Lawler, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist.