Nioka Lowe-Brennan
Sydney
Summary
Emerging First Nations curator and arts professional with extensive experience in curation, arts engagement, and public programming. Currently undertaking a Curator in Training role at Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative, building upon five years of experience as a gallery assistant and tour guide. Passionate about amplifying First Nations voices in cultural institutions through innovative exhibitions and meaningful community engagement. Dedicated to fostering accessible and inclusive arts education that connects audiences with First Nations storytelling and artistic expression.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Curator
Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative
01.2024 - Current
- Curated exhibitions, including Black Family Aboriginal Love, centreing First Nations artists and cultural narratives.
- Developed exhibition themes, artist statements, and interpretive materials to enhance audience engagement.
- Collaborating with senior curator to expand Indigenous representation in exhibitions and programming.
- Procured talented individuals, performing artists, and musicians to entertain guests during special events.
Workshop Facilitator
Freelance
04.2021 - Current
- Hosting workshops for children and adults focused on painting, weaving, and storytelling through art.
- Delivering educational sessions that connect traditional and contemporary First Nations artistic practices.
- Running bi-monthly community workshops specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with a focus on elders and those in need of safe spaces.
- Collaborating with cultural institutions, schools, and community organizations to promote cultural understanding through hands-on artistic experiences.
- Encouraging participants to explore their own narratives and cultural identity through creative expression.
Art Gallery Assistant
Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative
02.2020 - Current
- Conducted guided tours, engaging diverse audiences with deep knowledge of Aboriginal art, history, and contemporary practices.
- Delivered public programs and educational workshops, promoting First Nations perspectives in the arts.
- Collaborated with artists and curators to develop comprehensive exhibition materials, enhancing visitor understanding of displayed works.
- Supported marketing efforts by creating visually appealing promotional materials for upcoming exhibitions and events.
- Maintained detailed artwork descriptions and artist biographies in central database to facilitate accurate delivery of information to visitors.
Education
Diploma of Visual Arts -
Wollongong TAFE
10-2020
Skills
- First Nations cultural education and engagement
- Curatorial research and exhibition development
- Public speaking and guided tours
- Arts administration and event coordination
- Community outreach and engagement
- Knowledge of Aboriginal art history and contemporary practice
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Artistic practice and workshop facilitation
Timeline
Assistant Curator
Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative
01.2024 - Current
Workshop Facilitator
Freelance
04.2021 - Current
Art Gallery Assistant
Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative
02.2020 - Current
Diploma of Visual Arts -
Wollongong TAFE
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