Clancestry

Clancestry, A Celebration of Country, is back again at QPAC for a week of visual art, workshops, song, dance and market stalls, highlighting the continuation and dynamic evolution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in Australia.

One key highlight for this festival was the importance of connection and it was evident in every aspect of their short film selections, workshops and public performances. The traditional and contemporary art forms held one common connection, which resembled a strong sense of pride in their communities and bringing people together to support and take pride in the arts and culture of First Nations people.

This festival draws crowds of over 17,000 people annually with many special guest curators running conversations on the important issues which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are facing today. During the festival a series of short films was screened, covering a wide range of serious social issues and then some black comedy, both of which were well received by the audiences.

One of the reasons Clancestry will continue to return to Brisbane and the QPAC venue specifically is because they work together to provide a meeting place where people can come together and tell stories, while also building a strong sense of themselves and connection to the land and people round them.

If only the festival ran longer to give Brisbane more time to promote a stronger understanding and appreciation in the First Nations people, I would encourage everyone to attend and immerse yourselves in what the Celebration of people has to offer.

Running from the 30th of November to the 6th of December, all tickets are free but some programs will require booking.

Mel Bobbermien