Ghost Net Weaving Masterclass with Jimmy John Thaiday, Erub Arts
Learn from incredible artists, and be guided and inspired as they share their stories and knowledge of both ancient and contemporary techniques—then take home your own piece from the Fair!
In this masterclass, you’ll join artist Jimmy John Thaiday from Erub Arts for a hands-on creative adventure working with ghost nets!
Hear Jimmy’s stories from Erub island in Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait, where he lives and works. His practice includes high-resolution digital video and woven ghost-net sculptures. Through his work, he draws attention to the climate crisis in Zenadth Kes, including the impacts of sea-level rising at twice the global average and of abandoned fishing nets causing significant damage to the environment and marine life.
Meet the Art Centre: Founded in 2009, Erub Arts Centre was created to share cultural knowledge and perspectives and maintain a strong Erubian identity and culture through contemporary art.
Erub is the most North-Eastern of the Torres Strait Islands and home to approximately 400 Erubam le (Erub people).
At the heart of Torres Strait Spiritual life is the belief that islands, sea and sky and all nature possesses a soul or spirit. Knowledge of sacred relationships is maintained in contemporary art practices and is vital to artists as the explore place and identity.
Historically, Erub relied on strong trade links and relationships with the people of Papua New Guinea and south to Cape Yok. Today, Erub Arts creative practice continues to evolve through collaboration and cross- cultural exchange.
Be sure to stop by their DAAF booth and head to their website to learn more: www.erubarts.com.au
DAAF’s Public Program Masterclasses have been developed with both artist and participant experiences in mind. Masterclasses have a three hour time slot allocated so that participants can feel comfortable and grasp new techniques with confidence. Participant numbers are also capped to ensure an intimate experience.
Brought to you by Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, the Public Program is proudly supported by the Northern Territory Government through Tourism and Events NT, Creative Australia, Copyright Agency Cultural Fund, McDonald’s Group and premium media partner Peppermint Magazine.
Copyright Agency Cultural Fund
Learn more about DAAF, and see what else is on in August here: https://daaf.com.au/daaf-2026/
Can’t make it in person? Or just want to take more in? Join us online: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/r/E759F4E72C940C052540EF23F30FEDED
Event Details
Ghost Net Weaving Masterclass with Jimmy John Thaiday, Erub Arts
Sunday 9 August 2026, 1:30pm to 4pm
DAAF, Outside Meeting Place
This event will be photographed and filmed.
If you do not wish to be shown in marketing material please contact [email protected].
Accessibility
We are committed to making DAAF a welcoming and accessible event for all. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking spaces, ramps, elevators and bathrooms throughout. We will also have an Accessibility Liaison available to assist you with any enquiries you may have in the leadup and during the show.
If you have any specific accessibility needs you would like to share with us or would like our friendly team to contact you before the show, please let us know when you purchase your ticket. You can also contact our friendly team by emailing [email protected].
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Where is it happening?
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