Indigenous board member joins Adelaide Fringe

Adelaide Fringe Board Chair David Minear said Pearson’s appointment reflected the festival’s commitment to cultural inclusivity.

“For me, being truly aware and genuinely inclusive of Indigenous people, culture, art and history shouldn’t be a sometimes thing. It is something we need to be always aware of and respectful of.

“As the saying goes, art can change hearts and minds, and Odette gives us more power to deliver that aim.”

Dr Pearson is of far north Queensland eastern Kuku Yalanji and Torres Strait Islander heritage, with a PhD in Health Economics and Social Policy. She is a Senior Research Fellow at UniSA and the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.

“Whether you’re making or engaging with and artistic work, it’s quite therapeutic and it’s a great way to express yourself and share your culture,” Pearson said.

“I look forward to helping this fantastic festival continue its work to make the arts as accessible as possible.”

Dr Pearson’s appointment coincides with Indigenous Business Month, which this year is celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in business.

Adelaide Fringe Director and CEO Heather Croall added, “We want the Fringe to be an inclusive festival where Aboriginal artists and producers can thrive. We want the visibility of Aboriginal people to increase in the Adelaide Fringe, and we welcome Aboriginal artists to participate and for people from all communities to engage with the Fringe in all areas.”

The 2019 Adelaide Fringe will run from Friday, February 15 to Sunday, March 17. For more information, please visit adelaidefringe.com.au

Image credit: Trentino Priori