About Hermannsburg Potters and Ntaria Community

The Western Aranda community of Ntaria (Hermannsburg) is 130 kilometres west of Alice Springs, Central Australia. The community is based at the remote foothills of the Western MacDonnell ranges alongside Lhara Pinta, the Finke River. The township itself is the home of approximately 700 people, and the hub for 37 regional outstations, or homelands.The Hermannsburg Potters began in 1990 after an initial 18-week training course held at the outstations/homelands surrounding Ntaria. Following financially successful exhibitions, the training program was then extended for a further two years. In 1992, the then ATSIC approved Aboriginal enterprise development funding, and the artists decided to incorporate, and acquired a small building next to the Ntaria School, from where they still operate.The Hermannsburg Potters have developed into a renowned collective and have works held in public and private collections, both nationally and internationally. Over time, their art practice has expanded to include mosaic, ceramic relief murals, acrylic landscape paintings, sgraffito pottery, slab-built sculpture and slip cast homewares. Despite this diversity they continue to remain recognised for their niche product: terracotta sculptured pottery, decorated with pictorial under glazing, which tell stories of their country and culture. The Hermannsburg Potters push the boundaries of their imagination and skill through their iconic and vibrant practice. Their pottery is not utilitarian but is viewed as a vehicle for self-expression to depict Western Aranda cultural values, Country and contemporary life in Ntaria. Their closely observed pots exhibit an intriguing sense of humour, an element of gentleness and the sure knowledge and pride for the Western Aranda place in the world.

About the Role

Reporting to the Art Centre Manager, the Studio & Project Coordinator will work closely with artists and art workers to manage the day to day studio operations of the art centre. You will be responsible for maintaining studio equipment and art supplies (including kiln operations), managing a busy production schedule and facilitating the delivery of a high standard exhibition program. The role will also facilitate the development and implementation of projects including bush trips. The role will require travel for art fairs, exhibitions and other relevant events.

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a skilled potter or creative who would like to experience life in a remote community. You will need to be highly motivated, have both project management and ceramic/practical skills. You must have well developed listening and communication skills and be able to work effectively in a busy and distracting environment. Respect and understanding of cross-cultural environments and the ability to work with First Nations artists safely and respectfully is essential. Knowledge of contemporary Aboriginal art is also desirable.

You will work onsite in Ntaria (Hermannsburg). Due to accommodation shortages in Ntaria the position will have set working days of Wednesday-Friday each week. When in community, fully furnished accommodation with utilities included (water, electricity, rates) will be provided. Accommodation is not provided or available outside working days. Candidate must have their own transport to from travel to and from Ntaria (km allowance negotiable).

** Applicants that do not address this selection criteria will not be considered

SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential:

• Tertiary qualifications or relevant work experience in ceramics, visual art, community development, or Indigenous arts
• Demonstrated ability to operate with a positive and professional approach in a complex and changing environment
• Demonstrated ability to plan, manage and deliver projects in a timely manner
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of people
• Experience working with or mentoring First Nations communities or individuals
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and use initiative
• Capacity to travel to and work in a remote location
• Ability to work in what can be a high pressure and demanding environment
• Current driver’s licence and ability to travel widely in support of Hermannsburg Potters activities

Desirable:

• Experience working in remote Indigenous communities
• Understanding of the First Nations Arts Industry as well as an understanding of contemporary art and broader visual arts industry.
• Experience using SAM database
• Experience with E-commerce websites
• Ability to take quality photographs with a Digital SLR
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite highly regarded
• Experience driving a 4WD in a remote context

Requirements:

• Driver’s license (4WD + Long distance driving experience highly regarded)
• National Police Clearance

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications should address the selection criteria and include a resume (CV) and two references. Applicants are requested to submit digital applications addressing the selection criteria via the "Apply Now" button.

Acceptance of late applications will be at the discretion of the Art Centre Manager.

Position to start July 2025

For more information regarding this position or the recruitment process please contact the Art Centre Manager Ness Sim (0499 405 712 or 08 8956 7414).

A position description is attached.