The name (pronounced tar-nan-dee) comes from the language of the Kaurna people, the traditional owners of the Adelaide Plains. It means to come forth or appear – like the sun and the first emergence of light.

Tarnanthi is a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across the country to share important stories. It encourages new beginnings by providing artists with opportunities to create significant new work and to extend their practice.

It illuminates the diversity and depth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art by presenting an annual exhibition, art fair, artist talks, performances and events. Tarnanthi is led by Artistic Director Nici Cumpston, AGSA’s Curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art.

With the heart of the Festival at the Art Gallery of South Australia, partner exhibitions are featured at diverse venues - from regional galleries to city hospitals, town halls to university campuses and museums to artist studio spaces.