Recently elected as
the first NSW Aboriginal Minister – the Minister for Fair Trade, Youth and the
newly profiled Volunteering, Ms. Burney told the up to fifty or so people
squashed into the petite upstairs space, “You walk in here and you see class”,
referring not only to the art hanging from the walls of the cafes’ both top and
bottom floors, but the café space in general.
Adorned with art
pieces from prominent Indigenous Contemporary artists, like Elaine Russell and
Adam Hill to name a couple, the café seems to reflect the evolving culture of
indigenous urban art in this day and age – an important issue for contemporary
artists, as Adam Hill would know only too well. No doubt this is part of the
reason that the top floor of the café had been development into Studio 137. Other
reasons include, in Mr. Hills own words, that it will become: “A space where
kids can come and create. We want to hold workshops.”
However, traditional
art is also available, with pieces from Mornington
Island and others donated from Boomali Art Gallery
in Leichhardt and, as Mr. Hill will tell you, works are for sale, ranging in
price from $500 – $5000.
The idea to open an
Aboriginal Café displaying Indigenous talent came about when Bonnie Briggs, part founder, heard about the
space and attempted to phone someone else to use it for the same purpose.
Fortunately the person didn’t answer, for which she now says, “ Thank
God!”
Co-founder and
partner Marge said, “ I’ve been in this community since 1989 and Bonnie has
been here since she was 15 years old. This is our community.” All three
graciously pay huge homage and respect to the shy Dr. Mick Ashton who donated
the space and the financial support for the business’ establishment.
When asked about the
success of opening night, which catered for up to 200 people, she says “Wow! I
didn’t expect that many.” Too deadly. Now I think I’ll have me one of their
perfect cups of coffee.
Source: South Sydney
Herald May 2007 http://www.southsydneyherald.com.au/