Documentary Australia

Issue area

The Arts

Documentaries help highlight the value and diversity of The Arts within culture and society.

Throughout history, The Arts have been used as a means of reflecting, critiquing, and influencing society. In ancient civilisations, art was often used to depict societal hierarchies, religious beliefs, and cultural practices. 

In the 20th century, The Arts became increasingly intertwined with social and political movements with artists and cultural figures playing crucial roles in advocating for civil rights, feminism, LGBTQIA+ rights, and other social justice causes. 

In recent times, the social impact of The Arts has expanded and diversified further with artists engaging with a wide range of social and political issues, including environmental sustainability, racial inequality, mental health, globalisation, and technological advancements. They employ various mediums including visual arts, performing arts, literature, music, film, and digital media to communicate their messages and engage audiences. 

Documentaries help highlight the value and diversity of The Arts within culture and society. As an art form themselves, documentaries show how The Arts allow audiences to engage with different perspectives and experiences, and allow for social commentary, self-expression, and personal development. Artists and cultural organisations work closely with communities to address local concerns and promote social change. They create platforms for dialogue, challenge perception, raise awareness, and empower individuals and communities to take action. Documentaries about these creative expressions elevate and expands the reach and depth of understanding of their messages.  

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Mark Street

Cyclops is a life affirming story of a group of African Australians coping in a time of political strife through dance.

Nicola Woolmington

Music is spirit - this is a music journey of a music explorer like no other, where art seriously questions technology.

Tahyna MacManus

A tiny rural community attempts to bring tourists back to town by holding the world's first ABBA tribute festival

Joshinder Chaggar

Women in their 60’s and 70’s pursue fulfillment, inspiring change in our limiting perceptions of older women.

Sacha Hulsebosch

A journey about 8 independent artists, challenged and inspired by the pandemic, and showcasing their projects.

Mish Armstrong

The untold Australian connection to the history of ska music in Jamaica and the UK, and the power of music to unite.

Mark Murphy

The story of a time when Sydney was the dance party capitol of the world.

Fiona Mahl

IT WAS NEVER YOURS TO TAKE !!