In a recent unfolding at the esteemed Venduehuis Auction House in the Netherlands, the allure of Aboriginal art was once more underscored when a coveted piece by the renowned artist, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, soared well beyond its estimated value.
Reflecting on the referendum's outcome, it's apparent the journey towards a unified, equitable Australia demands our collective and persistent engagement. Though the 'YES' we had hoped for didn't resonate across the ballots, the chorus of voices advocating for Indigenous representation has only grown and become more harmonious. The referendum might have closed a chapter, but the narrative of inclusivity and recognition is far from over. Let's carry the essence of what 'YES' represented - unity, respect, and a nation willing to learn, grow, and embrace its Indigenous heritage. Each dialogue, every shared insight, propels us closer to the Australia we envision - one where the wisdom of its First Nations people is not just heard, but revered and integrated into the nation's...
When we vote "YES," it's more than rectifying past mistakes. We're collectively acknowledging our growth as a nation and ensuring that past wrongs don't dictate our shared future. We're expressing trust in the insights and expertise of our First Nations people and emphasising the value of their voices.
Papunya Tula is the first Aboriginal Art Centre in Australia and emerged in the early 1970s from the community of Papunya, a location roughly 240km northwest of Alice Springs. The centre has a proud tradition and stands as a remarkable emblem of the profound depth and complexity of Indigenous Australian artistry.
A Symbol of Identity, Resistance, and Unity The Aboriginal Flag represents not only the First Nations people of Australia but also the long and complex history of indigenous rights, resistance against colonisation, and the continuing struggle for recognition and justice. Australia, like many other countries with a history of colonization, bears the scars of cultural dislocation, oppression, and the suppression of its indigenous populations. The Aboriginal Flag stands as a potent reminder and emblem of the indigenous people's past, present, and future aspirations. Who designed the Aboriginal Flag? The Aboriginal Flag was designed by Harold Thomas, a Luritja man from Central Australia, in 1971. The flag features three horizontal bands and its design is simple, yet profoundly symbolic: ...
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.
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''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.