Steve Martin Loves Aboriginal Art
Aboriginal art, with its mesmerising dots, intricate patterns, and deep connections to the Dreamtime, has found admirers across the globe—from the red sands of the Australian outback to the polished floors of Manhattan galleries. In recent years, this ancient art form has captured the hearts and wallets of some of the most discerning collectors. Among them, the ever-curious actor Steve Martin, known for his love of fine art, has added Aboriginal masterpieces to his eclectic collection. Not to be outdone, Oprah herself has been spotted at gallery openings, perhaps seeking a piece that resonates with her own quest for stories of resilience and spirit.
It’s no wonder that Aboriginal art has found such a devoted following. After all, these works carry not just pigment and pattern but stories that stretch back tens of thousands of years. So, whether you’re an A-list celebrity or simply a lover of art, the allure of Aboriginal art lies not just in its aesthetic beauty but in the profound connection it offers to one of the world’s oldest living cultures. And if you’re lucky, you might just find yourself standing beside a Hollywood star at the next exhibition—both of you captivated by the ancient narratives that continue to echo through the centuries. Here's a list of institutions and commercial galleries in the United States. In no particular order:
Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of the American Indian – Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian is a leading institution dedicated to the cultural heritage of Native peoples across the Americas, including a notable collection of Aboriginal Australian art. The museum’s exhibitions delve into the deep connections between land, culture, and creativity that are central to Aboriginal art.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art – New York, New York
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, offers a rich array of Aboriginal art from various regions of Australia. The collection highlights the stories and symbols that have been passed down through generations, showcasing the continuity and adaptability of Aboriginal cultural expressions.
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection, University of Virginia – Charlottesville, Virginia
The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection is the only museum in the United States solely dedicated to Aboriginal Australian art. This collection is unparalleled in its scope, featuring both traditional and contemporary works that reflect the diverse practices of Aboriginal artists from across the continent.
Hood Museum of Art, Dartmouth College – Hanover, New Hampshire
The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College is home to an impressive collection of Aboriginal art. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its carefully curated exhibitions, which provide insights into the cultural and artistic practices of Indigenous Australians.
The Menil Collection – Houston, Texas
The Menil Collection includes a significant selection of Aboriginal art, with works that explore the spiritual and symbolic meanings embedded in these creations. The gallery offers a space where viewers can engage with the cultural narratives that these artworks embody.
Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, de Young Museum – San Francisco, California
The de Young Museum, part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, features an extensive collection of Aboriginal art. The museum’s exhibitions often focus on the vibrant and diverse artistic traditions of Aboriginal communities, offering a broad perspective on their cultural significance.
Yale University Art Gallery – New Haven, Connecticut
The Yale University Art Gallery’s collection of Aboriginal art is distinguished by its breadth and depth. The gallery showcases a wide range of artworks, from early ceremonial objects to contemporary pieces, providing a comprehensive view of Aboriginal artistic traditions.
Peabody Essex Museum – Salem, Massachusetts
The Peabody Essex Museum, one of the oldest in the United States, includes a remarkable collection of Aboriginal art. The museum’s exhibitions highlight the connection between these works and the cultural landscapes from which they originate, offering viewers a deeper understanding of their significance.
The American Museum of Natural History – New York, New York
The American Museum of Natural History includes Aboriginal art within its broader collection of Indigenous art from around the world. The museum’s presentations often emphasise the cultural and spiritual dimensions of these works, enhancing visitors’ appreciation of Aboriginal traditions.
The Harvard Art Museums – Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Harvard Art Museums feature a selection of Aboriginal art that underscores the university’s dedication to cultural preservation and education. The collection spans various mediums and styles, offering a well-rounded overview of Aboriginal artistic practices.
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art – Indianapolis, Indiana
The Eiteljorg Museum, known for its focus on Native American art, also includes a notable collection of Aboriginal Australian art. The museum’s exhibitions explore the connections between Indigenous art from different parts of the world, creating a cross-cultural dialogue that enriches the viewer’s experience.
The National Gallery of Art – Washington, D.C.
The National Gallery of Art occasionally features Aboriginal art within its international exhibitions. While the collection is selective, the pieces on display are chosen to highlight the distinctive qualities of Aboriginal artistic expression.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) – Los Angeles, California
LACMA is one of the largest art museums in the western United States, and it includes a significant collection of Aboriginal art. The museum’s exhibitions often focus on contemporary aspects of Aboriginal art, showcasing how these artists engage with modern themes while remaining rooted in tradition.
The Heard Museum – Phoenix, Arizona
The Heard Museum, dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art, also includes a selection of Aboriginal Australian art. The museum’s commitment to cultural education is evident in its thoughtful presentation of these works, which are integrated into broader exhibitions of Indigenous art.
Gagosian Gallery – Various Locations
Gagosian Gallery, with its multiple locations across the United States, occasionally showcases Aboriginal art, particularly in the context of contemporary global art movements. The gallery’s exhibitions highlight the unique contributions of Aboriginal artists to the broader art world, positioning their work alongside that of leading contemporary artists.
D’Lan Contemporary – New York, New York
D’Lan Contemporary, with a presence in New York, is a key player in the commercial gallery scene for Aboriginal art in the United States. Specialising in the sale of museum-quality works, D’Lan Contemporary offers a carefully curated selection of Aboriginal art, emphasising both historical and contemporary pieces.
The Menil Collection – Houston, Texas
The Menil Collection in Houston is home to a selection of Aboriginal art that reflects the spiritual and cultural narratives inherent in these works. The collection’s focus on the relationship between art and cultural identity makes it a vital resource for understanding Aboriginal artistic traditions.
The Fowler Museum at UCLA – Los Angeles, California
The Fowler Museum at UCLA has a diverse collection of global art, including Aboriginal Australian pieces. The museum’s exhibitions often explore the cultural contexts of the artworks, providing a rich understanding of the traditions they represent.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – New York, New York
MoMA, though primarily focused on modern and contemporary art, has included Aboriginal art in some of its international exhibitions. These exhibitions draw connections between Aboriginal art and broader global art movements, offering new perspectives on both.