The First Word with Tony Albert

Photography by Manolo Campion
Words by Tony Albert

Acknowledgement of Country

Dear Friends,

My name is Tony Albert, and I am one of the many artists involved in this incredible publication. My family belongs to the Girramay, Yidindji and Kuku Yalandji people.

Along With Michelle Grey and Susan Armstrong, we are confident that we can speak for all the amazing artists in acknowledging the Custodians of the land and waters of which we all live and work. The inspirational communities who have cared for the country from time immemorial to forever.

We pay our deepest respect and acknowledge Elders, past and present, and recognise all the young leaders who continue to carry the flame of our ancestors. This extends to all our Brothers and Sisters throughout Australia and the world.

Finally, when we use terms like Brother, Sister, Aunty and Uncle, they are cultural terms of endearment that encompass all our wonderful allies who stand with and beside us. So, we believe this short introduction and acknowledgement resonates from and through all the amazing participants and partners in this publication.

May we promote a vision not of ownership but of BELONGING.

X Tony Albert

Tony Albert, Mid Century Modern-Australia, 2016. Courtesy of the artist and Sullivan+Strumpf

A-M Journal: What words do you live by?

Tony Albert: I feel in general it’s just about respecting everyone. For me, a quality exists through the acceptance of difference, not through things being exactly the same.

AM: What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

TA: Your wealth is judged by what you give, not what you receive.

AM: What’s your daily mantra?

TA: Live. Laugh. Land Rights.