QLD: Prince Harry invited to Lockhart River Art centre

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QLD: Prince Harry invited to Lockhart River Art centre

By Jordan Baker

LOCKHART RIVER, Qld, Aug 19 AAP - A remote Cape York Aboriginal community has invitedPrince Harry to meet its famous young artist if he visits Australia later this year.

The prince, who studied art at school, may head down under to play polo and watch therugby union World Cup final in Sydney.

The 22-year-old is said to be influenced by Aboriginal art.

Lockhart River's art gang is holding its own in the art world with 24-year-old RosellaNamok dubbed one of Australia's most collectible artists.

Namok's abstract work has been featured in the National Gallery, the Queensland Galleryand in an indigenous exhibition in Berlin.

Lockhart River art centre coordinator Sue Ryan said Ms Namok first began grabbing attentionfour years ago.

"She's just had record sales and she is the most successful artist of her age in thehistory of mainstream art in Australia," Ms Ryan said.

In a letter sent via the Queensland Governor's secretary, the community invited theprince to spend time in the town and experience its culture and art.

"Lockhart River Aboriginal community in Queensland has a number of Aboriginal artistswho are recognised worldwide for their skills," it said.

"The community wishes to extend an invitation to Prince Harry to stay at their communityand gain exposure to recognise Aboriginal artists and their work."

Lockhart River, on the eastern side of Cape York, is about 800 kilometres north ofCairns and is completely isolated during the wet season.

The Lockhart River art gang grew out of a high school program to teach young peopleart, music and horticultural skills.

In 1997, a cultural centre was opened to help the artists such as Namok, Fiona Omeenyoand Silas Hobson market their work.

The eight artists - all under 30 - are grabbing national and international attentionwith a tour to the United States planned for later this year.

AAP jb/cc/mg/bwl

KEYWORD: ROYALS HARRY