As an art lover, curator, or someone taking their first steps into the art world to collect art, buy it as a home décor accessory, or study about it, it is crucial and respectful to learn about the art form and style you wish to purchase. Learning about artwork gives you insight into the artist’s vision and inspiration and helps you understand if it complements your taste. As an Australian citizen or a lover of Australian art, you must have heard about Aboriginal art while diving into the art world.
Aboriginal art is one of the oldest art forms to exist globally. Dating back to approximately 60,000 years, this style narrates the life, experiences, and stories of Indigenous Australians, native to the continent, through visual art. Since this artistic form traces the journey of Australia’s Indigenous people, it is important to understand it before purchasing aboriginal art for sale.
What are the Different Forms of Aboriginal Art?
Aboriginal art is expressed through various mediums and forms, such as:
- Ochre art: Painted using colors like red, yellow, white, brown, grey, green, and moody shades, along with charcoal, ochre art uses traditional symbols to narrate native stories.
- Fibre painting: Fibre painting uses items such as clothes, utensils, gadgets, hunting tools, woven garments, and grass to create handmade artwork.
- Wood-based art: Wood-based art uses wood and metals like bronze to make paintings and jewellery items.
- Bark art: Back art is the oldest aboriginal style and uses wood and ochre to paint and draw.
- Watercolours: Another popular aboriginal art style, watercolours are used to paint Australian scenery.
- Canvas art: Canvas art includes paintings drawn using acrylic colours and are usually painted on canvases or boards.
- Emotive art: Emotive art style reflects Indigenous Australian people’s cultural, social, and political climate and experiences.
- Historical art: Historical art displays the history of native Australian people.
How to Purchase Aboriginal Art?
Two primary and essential factors to keep in mind when purchasing aboriginal art are:
Quality of the Artwork.
It is vital to purchase original art pieces, as they are the experiences of indigenous people. Thus, ensure the artwork you purchase is sourced and curated. In addition to the original works, the material of the painting also determines its maintenance and durability. Linen is a high-quality material that protects the painting from scratches and cracks.
Art Advisor.
Consult an art advisor or an authentic site when making your purchase to learn about the quality of the art piece, its history, origin, and an insight into the artist’s story and experience. An art advisor will offer expertise, knowledge, and guidance to ensure you buy an authentic piece through ethical means.
Who are Australia’s Renowned Aboriginal Artists?
Various aboriginal artists have painted their stories in their art pieces, such as:
- Emily Kngwarreye
- Ronnie Tjampitjinpa
- Sarrita and Tarisse King
- Gloria Petyarre
- Gracie Ward Napaltjarri
- Ningura Napurrula
What are the Most Popular Aboriginal Artworks?
Some of the most renowned aboriginal artworks are:
- My Country by Kudditji Kngwarreye
- Awurrapun Crocodile by Helen Mccarthy Tyalmuty
- Walpa Tjukurpa by Jorna Newberry
- Salt on Mina Mina by Dorothy Napangardi
- Tingari Cycle by Thomas Tjapaltjarri
Final Thoughts.
When purchasing aboriginal art for sale, learn about the artists and their artworks, and consult authentic galleries and art advisors, as the art pieces are personal and narrate the stories and journey of Indigenous Australians.
