Darwin Airport Resorts launched a permanent Indigenous Art Trail for the Darwin Street Art Festival’s 10th anniversary, strengthening its role as an NT cultural gateway

The trail brings together five large scale murals by Indigenous artists across the Airport Resort precinct, creating one of the first cultural experiences for visitors arriving in the Territory. The collection includes four existing works alongside a newly completed mural by Larrakia and Mayali artist Keelan Fejo, Manimunak Narmangol Gujokenor (Magpie Geese and Barra in the Wet), unveiled this week at the Novotel Darwin Airport.

Positioned above the Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen, the new artwork celebrates Larrakia storytelling, cultural connection to land and water, and the rhythms of the Top End wet season. Its completion marks the final piece of the Airport Indigenous Art Trail, transforming the precinct into an accessible, open air gallery that welcomes guests through art and culture.

Airport Development Group (ADG) is proud to support the inclusion of the Darwin International Airport Indigenous Art Trail in the official 2026 Darwin Street Art Festival program guide, reinforcing the Festival’s growing role as a cultural and tourism drawcard for the Northern Territory.

The Darwin Street Art Festival represents far more than public art. It brings together culture, tourism, community and celebration in a way that authentically showcases the spirit of the Top End

Seb Mackinnon, Executive General Manager Commercial at ADG, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to embedding Indigenous culture into major infrastructure and visitor experiences.

“The Darwin Street Art Festival represents far more than public art. It brings together culture, tourism, community and celebration in a way that authentically showcases the spirit of the Top End.

As the gateway to the Northern Territory, we are proud to support initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices and celebrate local stories from the moment travellers arrive.”

The Darwin Street Art Festival runs from 22 May to 5 June 2026, marking a decade of transforming walls, laneways and public spaces across Darwin into a vibrant open air gallery. 

Over ten years, the festival has grown into one of the Territory’s leading contemporary arts events, attracting thousands of visitors annually and creating new opportunities for cultural tourism and community connection.

Festival Director and Founder David Collins said the tenth year represents an important milestone.

“Reaching ten years is a celebration of artists, community and collaboration. The festival continues to transform Darwin’s urban landscape while creating accessible cultural experiences that connect locals and visitors alike.”

Darwin Airport Resorts General Manager Raymond Bragg said the Indigenous Art Trail represents a lasting cultural legacy for the precinct.

“This mural is a powerful expression of Larrakia culture and storytelling. We are proud to unveil a work that not only enhances the guest experience but also honours the Traditional Owners and celebrates the cultural richness that makes Darwin unique.”

As the festival enters its second decade, the Darwin International Airport Indigenous Art Trail will remain a permanent invitation for visitors and locals alike to experience Darwin through Indigenous art, storytelling and place based creativity, beginning at the very gateway to the Territory.