The Araluen Cultural Precinct hosts a collection of excellent museums, galleries and theatre spaces. Learn about ancient Aboriginal art and handicrafts as well as some more recent European aviation history.
In the Araluen Arts Centre find a significant collection of visual and performance art. Observe traditional paintings and sculpture from the central desert regions and contemplate the collection of modern artworks by nationally acclaimed Australian artists. The complex’s sculpture garden has a 300-year-old corkwood tree at its centre. The site of the tree is one of seven sites in the precinct that are considered sacred to the local Arrernte people.
Walk through the Central Australian Aviation Museum and learn about the history of flying adventures in the desert. Examine two original planes from the region’s historic Flying Doctor Service and the interesting display of aviation memorabilia.
Visit the incredible Albert Namatjira Gallery and see an extensive collection of works by this internationally renowned Aboriginal artist. Wonder at the watercolours of vibrant Central Australian landscapes and appreciate the paintings that were part of the Western Desert art movement in the 1970s.
Experience the excitement of live performance at the Araluen Art Centre theatre. Check the centre’s annual program guide to see dance, cabaret, theatre and circus performances. Participate in community culture by attending the annual productions by local schools and artists.
The Museum of Central Australia showcases an eclectic display of geological and natural history items, including fossils and real meteorite fragments.
Central Craft offers a program of workshops, where you can learn how to create a mosaic or stretch a canvas. Walk inside the large Yeperenye sculpture, which represents an ancestral caterpillar from Aboriginal mythology.
Entry tickets to the precinct can be bought on arrival and include admission to all museums and galleries. The complex is located about 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) from central Alice Springs and can be reached by car, taxi or public bus.
The Araluen Cultural Precinct is a wonderful collection of art and history not to be missed.