The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has concluded its investigation into allegations of non-Indigenous involvement in the creation of Aboriginal art at the APY Art Centre Collective (APY ACC). The investigation, prompted by media reports, found no evidence of a breach of consumer law. ACCC Clears APY Art Centre Collective in “White Hands on Black Art” Investigation
Allegations of “Involvement” Spark Controversy
The controversy stemmed from articles in The Australian newspaper alleging that non-Indigenous assistants at APY ACC contributed to artworks depicting Tjukurpa, a sacred law governing Anangu culture. A video reportedly showed such an assistant working on a piece by artist Yaritji Young, who denied any interference with her art.
ACCC Focuses on Consumer Law
The investigation focused on potential breaches of Australian Consumer Law. However, ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe acknowledged that the case raised “important discussion on complex cultural and social issues” surrounding Indigenous art creation and management.
Focus Shifts to Cultural Protection
Lowe emphasized that such cultural concerns fall outside the ACCC’s purview. She pointed to proposed federal legislation specifically designed to protect Indigenous cultural and intellectual property as a potentially more suitable framework for addressing these issues.
APY ACC Welcomes Findings
The APY Art Centre Collective, through its chair Sandra Pumani, welcomed the ACCC’s findings. Ms. Pumani described the allegations as a “false story” and expressed relief that the investigation vindicated the integrity of the collective’s artists.
ORIC Investigation Continues
While the ACCC investigation has concluded, the South Australian government referred the allegations to the Office for the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC). Their investigation into the matter is ongoing.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/21-07-2024/12633/accc-discontinues-white-hands-on-black-art-investigation