Queer blak project

Ben Graetz is a local Garrmalang/Darwin man and descendant of the Iwaidja and Malak Malak Clans. He undertook a residency with Tiwi Sista Girls - Shaun aka Shaniqua Kerinaiua and Crystal Love - which explored the lived experience of Indigenous LGBTIQA+ people, particularly those in remote NT communities.

In 2018 this project included filmed interviews, elder consultation, development of performances and community conversations, culminating in a week of events at Wurrumiyanga/Nguiu on Bathurst Island. Future projects in this initiative could include: Queer Black Cabaret, Shaniqua The Show and remote NT engagement with LGBTIQA+ and their communities.

The aims of the Queer Blak Project will continue over coming years building on knowledge and ideas from the development year.

QUEER BLAK CABARET

In 2019 Ben Graetz undertook initial creative developments for a new queer black cabaret working with Aboriginal Queer artists from across Australia. RAIIN had it’s first stage development with 6 creatives from around Australia spending a week in Darwin devising this new work with Ben.

SHANIQUA THE SHOW

Planning commenced in 2019 for Shaun aka Shaniqua Kerinaiua to begin creating their one-person show exploring the life and experiences of Shaun and Shaniqua. Shaun is committed to highlighting the stories of Aboriginal Queer people living in remote Australia.

REMOTE NT ENGAGEMENT

WITH LGBTIQA+ AND THEIR COMMUNITIES

We will continue to develop programs that support, engage and respond to the needs of LGBTIQA+ remote Indigenous people. Through programs that specifically for and with LGBTIQA+ people while also working the broader community to build understanding and resilience.