Impactful Souvenir Guide for Central Australia

Impactful Souvenir Guide for Central Australia

I like to think that when you buy a souvenir in Central Australia your choice can act as a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. By shopping intentionally you directly support local families preserve the world oldest living culture and fund grassroots programs that make a real difference in desert communities. These days we want to make sure our money goes into local hands, or supports programs that make a difference.

This curated list is made up of local organisations and collectives that actually work on the ground, improving lives and empowering the artists. The gift that gives twice. (see what I did there?)

The Revered Medicine of Bush Balm

Purple House also known as Western Desert Nganampa Walytja Palyantjaku Tjutaku is an Indigenous owned health service providing life saving dialysis to remote communities so people can stay on Country.

You can find them at 695 Gap Road from Monday to Friday between 9 am and 4 pm.

Bush Balm is far more than a topical ointment. It is a sacred connection to thousands of years of medicinal knowledge. The primary ingredient is Irmangka Irmangka which is a plant revered for physical and spiritual healing. Local people use it to treat aches and respiratory issues while the scent is believed to settle the spirit during times of grief or stress.

The tins are beautifully presented & featured designs by local Indigenous artists as well.

Empowering Collective Enterprises

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is located at 3 Wilkinson Street and is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm.

This social enterprise represents over 400 women from remote communities. While they are famous for fibre art sculptures they also create beautiful handmade beads and earrings. These intricate pieces are excellent souvenirs that carry the spirit of the desert and the skill of the weavers. I personally love this place!

Tangentyere Artists is found at 16 Fogarty Street and is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. They sell vibrant art created by residents of the Alice Springs Town Camps. Their work often depicts modern life and history with incredible honesty and colour.

Authentic Art and Cultural Heritage

The Araluen Arts Centre and Museum Shop is located at 61 Larapinta Drive and is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. This is the gold standard for ethical retail because every item is vetted for authenticity to ensure artists are paid fairly. It is an ideal place to find fine art silk scarves and local books.

Local artists often sit on the Todd Mall lawns in the centre of town where you can buy direct from the source. This happens daily but is most popular during Market Sundays starting at 9 am. You will see local artists who are predominantly women sitting with their canvases. Buying directly allows you to bypass the middleman. You should ask the artist about the meaning of the work and politely ask if they would mind signing the back for a personal connection. These sales also helps to empower these women to live autonomously.

Texas in Alice is located at 70 Todd Mall and is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm.

This hip local store is the place to go for authentic outback clothing and high quality boots. Supporting long standing local businesses like this helps keep the heart of the Alice Springs town centre beating.

Thrifting for Grassroots Work

Op shopping in Alice Springs (and anywhere!) is a great way to find unique items, art, books and clothes while funding essential social programs.

The Salvation Army is at 18 George Terrace and funds local emergency housing. Vinnies is at 82 Hartley Street and supports food programs and crisis relief. The Red Cross Shop is at 56 Hartley Street and supports local youth and migration programs.

I hope this guide has given you some inspiration for more unique souvenir options than an Alice Springs stubby cooler...and helps you find the amazing artists in town outside of the local gift shops.

Made with ♥ by Kelly

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**Picture is from the Araluen Arts wall mural by local artist Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, located on the east wall next to Yayes cafe. It was painted by Bob and Kaye Kessing with Yiyara College students.