The Araluen Arts Centre, which combines four galleries and a theatre, is Alice Springs' premier venue for exhibitions and performance art. It opened in 1984.
The main focus of the galleries is the work of Aboriginal artists from Central Australia as well as contemporary art. It contains works from the 1930s to the present day. An important part of the collection is the work of artist Albert Namatjira, who played an important role in the promotion of local Aboriginal art; the intricate works of Papunya; and works by contemporary artists living in remote communities. Among the centre's interesting displays are "Weavers of the Tianpi Desert" collection, consisting of 81 objects woven by women from the Central Desert region. It features baskets, figurines animal figures and sculptures made of emu ostrich feathers, wool, grass, beads and other materials. Another collection features 30 items of clothing of indigenous Australians. Since 1991, the Araluen has organised an annual Desert Mob art festival, where new work is presented.
The centre's 500-seat theatre provides a stage for the performance of drama, dance and music events. It is also a frequent venue art-house film screenings.
Of particular interest is the Araluen Centre building itself - it is built next to a 300-year-old cork tree in the Sculpture Garden. This tree and the and the nearby Big Sister Hill are considered sacred by the Aboriginal of the Arrernte tribe. The Araluen Centre is also part of the city's Cultural District Alice Springs - adjacent to it are the Museum of Central Australia, Strehlow Science and Research Centre, Central Australian Aviation Museum, Central Craft Shop and the Yepereni sculpture.
