Parrtjima – A Festival in Light showcases the oldest continuous cultures on Earth through the newest technology against the backdrop of the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs/Mparntwe, from 12 to 21 April, with installations and events responding to the theme ‘Interconnectedness’.
New large-scale light installations include Arrernte, a series of illuminated cars celebrating a collage of work across Eastern, Western and Central language groups; Honouring, an immersive passageway paying homage to Arrernte leader, the late Dr MK Turner OAM; and Tjoritja Cockatoos, brought to life by Vanessa Inkamala’s evocative art in the style of the Hermannsburg School of watercolour and the sound of calls of black cockatoos. Other highlights include Arelhe Urrperle, a six-metre-tall, 600kg wandering puppet sharing stories and language; a three-night marketplace; and a talks program featuring leading Indigenous voices.

Parrtjima 2024 MacDonnell Ranges Light Show. Courtesy Parrtjima, Alice Springs/Mparntwe