Tjala Arts
Tjala Arts Studio Manager
Tjala Arts is seeking a committed Studio Manager!
Do you want to join us at the heart of one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal art centres?
We are looking for a committed Studio Manager to support our artists, manage studio operations, and contribute to the success of one of the country’s most respected Aboriginal-owned art centres. Located in Amata, in the breathtaking Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in remote northwest of South Australia, this is a rare opportunity to live and work in a vibrant artistic and cultural community.
The role will work in close partnership with the Art Centre Manager, a role that is also open.
About Tjala Arts
An Aboriginal owned and managed corporation, Tjala Arts boasts an exciting multi- disciplinary art production and exhibition program supporting established, mid-career and emerging artists.
Tjala Arts is renowned for its innovation, rich cultural diversity, and artistic excellence. Our artists include acclaimed figures such as 2019 Wynne Prize winner Sylvia Ken, Yaritji Young, Iluwanti Ken, Naomi Kantjuriny, Frank Young and many more. We proudly nurture emerging talent and maintain a deep commitment to preserving Anangu culture through contemporary practice.
At Tjala Arts, art involves cultural leadership, economic development, and community engagement.
“Nganampa Art Nganana walytjanguku Business palyanu. Munula Tjukurpa kunpu kanyini – Our Art. Our Business. Keeps our culture strong.”
Frank Young
About the Role
The Studio Manager works closely with the Art Centre Manager and artists to:
- Manage the day-to-day running of the art centre studio
- Support artists’ professional development and studio practice
- Assist in arts administration, marketing, and sales operations
- Coordinate projects and support exhibitions
- Facilitate cultural activities and on-Country art trips This position requires creativity, strong organisational skills, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to supporting Indigenous self-determination.
Key Responsibilities Studio and Artist Support:
- Maintain a productive, safe, and inspiring studio environment
- Organise and document artworks (including photography and cataloguing via SAM software)
- Source, maintain, and manage art supplies
- Coordinate artist trips and creative projects, including bush trips
Administrative and Operational Duties:
- Record and maintain membership and artwork data accurately
- Prepare reports and assist with funding applications and acquittals
- Maintain art centre assets, equipment, vehicles and facilities under OH&S standards
Sales and Marketing Support:
- Assist in the development of promotional materials and marketing campaigns
- Support packaging and dispatch of artworks
- Manage stock for partner retail outlets
- Maintain customer, industry and media contact databases
Community Engagement:
- Foster respectful, supportive relationships with artists, community members, and external stakeholders
- Encourage the use and preservation of Anangu language, culture, and knowledge systems
Selection Criteria Essential:
- Tertiary qualifications or equivalent experience in the arts, community development, or related field
- Administrative and IT competency, including familiarity with database systems
- Strong organisational, communication and time management skills
- Understanding of studio environments and how to facilitate artmaking
- Experience working cross-culturally, particularly with Indigenous communities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Current driver’s licence (manual) and ability to travel extensively in remote areas
- Willingness to live and work in a remote Aboriginal community Highly Desirable:
- Experience in arts marketing, artsdevelopmentor exhibition coordination
Salary and Benefits
- Salary Range: $65,000 – $75,000 per annum (cash component)
- Superannuation: 11.5%
- Leave Entitlements:
o Six weeks annual leave
- Relocation Assistance: Available
- Subsidised Accommodation: Provided
- Salary Packaging Options: Available
- Professional Development Support: Provided
How to Apply Please submit:
1. A Cover Letter outlining yourmotivation and suitability for the role
2. A Resume including employment history, relevant training, and skills
3. Names and contact details fortwoprofessional referees
4. A Response to the Selection Criteria Applications should be sent to:
Subject: Directors of Tjala Arts
For further information, contact
Why Join Us?
At Tjala Arts, you will be part of a passionate, innovative art community deeply connected to culture, Country, and storytelling. Your work will empower Anangu artists, support community wellbeing, and contribute to a rich legacy of contemporary Aboriginal art.
Working in a remote Aboriginal community is a life-changing experience with acute challenges and immense rewards. The successful applicant will have a keen sense of adventure. They will approach tasks with patience, flexibility, and have strong interpersonal and communication skills.
The successful applicant will be physically and mentally adept for the work, and will have the ability to collaborate with people of all ages, physical abilities and varying artistic experience.
Job Partnership
We are recruiting two roles Art Centre Manager and Studio Manager, which offers a unique job partnership opportunity. While the roles have separate functions, the two people will work collaboratively to oversee the daily operations and ensure the delivery of high-quality exhibitions, artistic support, and community cultural activities.
