For two weeks the pair will write, record and perform new acoustic based songs under the title Anya, which means ‘Now’ in Eleanor’s language of Mudburra.
Hailing from the remote Northern Territory community of Marlinja, Eleanor has shared her music and stories at festivals across the country, won prestigious music awards and performed with some of the biggest names in the Australian music industry. The front woman to family-band Rayella continues her rise with her involvement in the all-female band Kardajala Kirri-Darra that blends contemporary electronica and traditional music.
“Against a shared sense of wanting to make songs that communicate depth and fragility alongside the urgency of what is happening in the moment.”
As a transgender artist, Edi Donald has been able to facilitate a voice to the wide spectrum of gender and human identities and revels in voicing the in-between. Since first meeting in 2013, the dynamic duo has co-mentored at various musical workshops in remote communities throughout the Central Desert and Barkly areas.
“Since we've known each other we have supported one another artistically and shared inspiration, ideas and vision,” Eleanor explained.
“We hope to achieve freedom through our collaboration and to create something different and new from what either of us is currently doing.”
Edi says it’s a rare opportunity for two different artists with different perspectives, stories, dreams and voices, to unite and share a creative experience.
“Against a shared sense of wanting to make songs that communicate depth and fragility alongside the urgency of what is happening in the moment,” he said.
TheIndigenous Artist Residency Program aims to foster new Indigenous works and has seen the likes of deadly artists such as Jessie Lloyd and her Mission Songs Project, Vic Simms, Luke Peacock and Jimblah grace the stage.
CAC's Director, Michael Dagostino says it’s important to showcase talented Aboriginal artists in part of a Contemporary Music Program.
Indigenous musician Eleanor Dixon in new show, 'Anya' with fellow artist Edi Donald at Campbelltown Arts Centre. Source: NITV News
"CAC prides itself on presenting work that shares the stories and experiences of Aboriginal artists from across Australia. This work will see these two wonderful musicians working closely with our local community as part of their residency and performance.”
