The RAKA, which means ‘five’ in the Pintupi language, is awarded to an Indigenous artist in one of five categories annually, including creative prose, poetry, script writing, drama and visual arts.
In 2023, the $20,000 award supports an Indigenous visual artist who has held an exhibition in the past five years.
The RAKA, or Ruth Adeney Koori Award, was first awarded in 1991 to help advance recognition of Indigenous artistic achievements and creativity, was one of the earliest prizes for Indigenous artists in Australia. The award was established by eminent art and cultural historian Professor Emeritus Bernard Smith. Smith believed in the restorative justice powers of the arts in all forms, which is why the Kate Challis RAKA Award celebrates Indigenous creative excellence. It is named to honour the memory of his late wife, Kate Challis, who was known in her youth as Ruth Adeney. Past winners of the RAKA include filmmaker Ivan Sen (2014 and 2004), visual artist Yhonnie Scarce (2018), author Alexis Wright (2016) and poet Lionel Fogarty (2015).
Applications close on 26 June 2023.
Visit the website here for information on how to apply
Image Credit: Thunder Raining Poison by Yhonnie Scarce, Image courtesy the artist and AGSA
