Aboriginal Art Blog
ART ARK®

This is getting into the weeds for many but for those truly interested in the Aboriginal Art Market we love this 2010 paper which is reproduced here with permission from the author, Meaghan Wilson Anastasios. ------------------------ ''So here’s the pre-publication version of the paper, which looks at the sustainability of the Aboriginal art market using empirical evidence drawn from auction figures. My conclusion is that Aboriginal art, rightly or wrongly, is treated by the market as anthropological, rather than fine, art, and that this has implications for the mid- to long-term sustainability of the market...''

Tiwi Island artworks often revolve around significant Tiwi ceremonies, like Pukumani (burial) and Kulama (initiation), offering glimpses into the island's cultural core. The term 'Jilamara' in the Tiwi language means 'design', a fitting representation of the Aboriginal Art centre's oeuvre.

The Warmun Aboriginal Art Centre is a thriving, self-sustaining art center owned and run by the Gija people. Founded in 1998, the centre is a cooperative venture that supports contemporary Australian Indigenous painting by established Warmun artists. Located in the heart of the Gija country, the Warmun Art Center is a must-see for visitors to the region.

Located near Derby in the Kimberley region, the Mowanjum Arts Centre represents three major language groups: Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunambal. The centre is not only an arts space but a living cultural centre that serves as a stronghold for preserving and promoting the heritage of these communities.

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is an esteemed art collective that revitalises and celebrates the ancient weaving traditions of Aboriginal women from Central Australia via contemporary artworks. Through its commitment to cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and artistic innovation, Tjanpi Desert Weavers has created a lasting impact on the participating communities, while gaining national and international recognition for its exceptional fibre artworks.

Since its establishment in 1985, the art center has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Warlpiri culture through the creation of stunning artworks among many projects. Here are some key events and notable features since it it began:

The Barunga Statement emerged from a historic gathering known as the Barunga Festival, where Indigenous leaders, community members, and government officials came together to engage in meaningful dialogue. During the festival, Prime Minister Bob Hawke was presented with a statement crafted by the leaders of the Northern and Central Land Councils, representing the voice of Aboriginal people across the nation.

Maningrida Arts & Culture thrives on the lands of Kunibídji country in Arnhem Land, situated in Australia's Northern Territory. Spanning an expansive area of 7,000 square kilometers, this region encompasses both land and sea and is home to over 100 clan estates. Within this diverse landscape, the Maningrida community has nurtured a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, where more than 12 distinct languages are spoken. In this article, we delve into the essence of Maningrida Arts & Culture, celebrating the resilience and enduring connection of the Aboriginal people to their ancestral lands.

The 1967 referendum on Aboriginal rights in Australia was a significant milestone in the country's history, reflecting a national desire for change and recognition of the rights of Aboriginal people

What is the Voice to Parliament? The Voice is a proposed body designed to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. It would provide independent advice to the Parliament and Government, make proactive and responsive representations, and have its own resources for research and advocacy. Members of the Voice would be chosen by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, serving for a fixed period of time to ensure accountability. The Voice aims to be representative, inclusive, culturally informed, and gender balanced. It would be accountable, transparent, and subject to governance and reporting requirements. The Voice would collaborate with existing organisations and traditional structures, but would not have a program delivery function or veto power.