What’s On: Minimalism in Aboriginal Art exhibition (Mitchell Fine Art)

Minimalism in Aboriginal Art

5 – 30 April 2022

Mitchell Fine Art Gallery, Fortitude Valley

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The term ‘minimalism’ was first coined in the United States in the late 1950’s, its movement challenging preconceived notions of what art is and could be. The artworks in this exhibition challenge the viewers’ perceptions of Aboriginal art and highlight the spirit of the artists’ stories in their truest form.

Some of the artworks created by Central Australian Aboriginal artists at the start of the contemporary art movement in 1971 were simple designs featuring iconography used in traditional ceremonies, with only those involved understanding their true meaning. Initially these designs were not meant for public consumption and in time the painting process evolved to incorporate overpainting and dotting as a means of masking or camouflaging the imagery. The paintings featured in this exhibition utilise minimalistic compositions to portray story lines in their purest visual form. Using simple geometric designs, the artists depict tales of country, ceremonial body painting and interpretations of ancient, sacred stories.

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For more information and to view the exhibition catalogue, visit the Mitchell Fine Art website

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