Indigenous art supports scholarship

The work of some of Australia's most acclaimed Indigenous artists is on show at Shalom College this week to raise funds for UNSW Indigenous medical students.

Now in its fifth year, the Shalom Gamarada art exhibition is the only show of its type in Australia, boasting original artwork valued at over $1 million from emerging and established Aboriginal artists.

Featured artists include Gloria Petyarre and Shorty Jangala Robinson, Jan Billycan, Daniel Walbidi and Weaver Jack.

All artwork is available for purchase, with proceeds providing residential scholarships for Aboriginal medical students at Shalom College.

Since 2005 a total of 15 Indigenous students across medicine, optometry and medical science have been awarded the scholarships valued at $15,000 each..Scholarship founder, Professor Lisa Jackson Pulver, from UNSW's Muru Marri Indigenous Health Unit, says Shalom Gamarada will appeal to a broad audience.

"The exhibition is open to everyone, and there will be something suitable for all budgets. Attending the exhibition is a great way to support the Aboriginal community.

"Through other initiatives, such as a dedicated Indigenous entry into the medicine program, UNSW is well on the way to achieving best practice in the recruitment and retention of Indigenous medical students," Professor Jackson Pulver said.

The scholarship program runs in partnership with the Shalom College, Nura Gili Indigenous Programs Unit and the Muru Marri Indigenous Health Unit. Currently there are only 120 Indigenous students enrolled in Medicine across Australia.

The exhibition was opened at the weekend by NSW Minister for Community Services, Linda Burney. It closes this Sunday (26 July) with an Aboriginal health panel, convened by Professor Jackson Pulver.

For more information about the art on display in the exhibition, contact curator Jenny Hillman on 0410 648 859 or visit the website

What: 2009 Shalom Gamarada art exhibition

When: 19-26 July 2009, 11am until 7pm

Where: Shalom College, Barker Street, UNSW Kensington campus. (Parking available Gate 14, Barker St.)

Cost: Admission is free

Front page image: Peggy Wassi Mungaling Yam 61cm x 61cm

Media contact: Steve Offner | 02 9385 8107 | s.offner@unsw.edu.au