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Photo: Cam Matheson

Adam Manning is a Kamilaroi artist, composer, performer, and researcher, born on Awabakal/Worimi Country. He is a Custodial Descendant of Kamilaroi Barray (Land) and currently works at the University of Newcastle, NSW. His practice draws deeply from First Nations knowledge systems, exploring the rhythmic and cultural connections between sound, land, and identity.

Manning's creative output spans music, visual art, and academic research. His compositions often blend ancient Indigenous rhythmic concepts with contemporary forms, offering a distinctive voice within Australia's art music landscape. His work has been performed by major ensembles including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and Ensemble Offspring, and broadcast nationally by ABC Classic. He has also collaborated internationally with Roland Japan and is endorsed by Latin Percussion.

As a performer and collaborator, Manning has shared the stage with artists such as Keith Carlock, Bruce Mathiske, James Morrison, John Paul Young and the All-Stars, and Lachy Doley. His recent works for ABC Classic reflect his interest in storytelling through sound, often guided by cultural narratives and place-based knowledge.

In the visual arts, Manning draws inspiration from his work with Elders at the Guparr Aboriginal Men's Shed. His artworks combine traditional motifs with contemporary techniques and are featured at the Murrook Cultural Centre, the University of Newcastle, the NSW Department of Education, and other public institutions.

Manning's academic contributions include research into multimodal performance, Indigenous methodologies, and rhythmic practices. His full body of work-including publications, compositions, and exhibitions-can be explored via the Publications tab or at www.adammanning.info.

Adam Manning — current to June 2025