Save up to $677 on our trips! Book now and secure your adventure!

Aboriginal Art Galleries And Centres In Melbourne

Darwin is an important centre of Aboriginal culture – and dont miss the great sunsets
Darwin is an important centre of Aboriginal culture – and don't miss the great sunsets | © Deco / Alamy Stock Photo

Aboriginal art has been created for thousands of years, with the oldest rock painting in the world found to be 28,000 years old in the Northern Territory. Over the years, it has taken on many transformations, from a method of storytelling to symbolizing struggles, and to a representation of the contemporary indigenous identity. A small part of this historical and current art scene can be found scattered throughout Melbourne, as well as beyond the confines of the gallery.

The Ian Potter Centre

Tucked away in the central Federation Square building, The Ian Potter Centre is the home of Australian art. Combining both historical and contemporary pieces from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, such as Barak, Judy Watson and Uta Uta Tjangala, it is a home for art across several mediums.

Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art

Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art has specialized in providing homemade art from the Northern Territory Indigenous Art Supply (NTAIS). This includes pieces from the Central Western Desert, the Kimberley and Arnhemland. The many works can be viewed and purchased online or seen in person.

Vivien Anderson Gallery

Focusing more on the contemporary side of Aboriginal craft, including sculpture and abstract pieces, Vivien Anderson Gallery allows for delivery of pieces for specific exhibitions elsewhere. However, several exhibitions of the work of specific artists are always around the corner.

Outback Aboriginal Art

Outback Aboriginal Art is a way for both renowned and emerging artists from the remote areas of Australia to have their work seen both domestically and internationally. Founded in 1992 by Jennifer Dudley, the gallery is also in talks for exhibitions of the work to be distributed to the United States and Europe.

Amagoa Aboriginal Modern Art Gallery of Australia

Home to one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia, Amagoa Aboriginal Modern Art Gallery of Australia also travels to different galleries throughout the year. They also provide free advice on how you should build your own collection, with several experienced curators on hand. Wedding receptions or other private viewings can be arranged by appointment.

Bunjilaka Cultural Centre

Found within the Melbourne Museum, the Bunjilaka Cultural Centre encompasses all walks of life of the Aboriginal people. From the Birrarung Gallery focusing on Aboriginal art from Victoria to the beautiful space of the Milarri Garden, the center has something for all ages and cultures.

The Emily Museum

The Emily Museum puts the massive amount of pieces from Emily Kame Kngwarreye on display in one place. Featuring more than 200 works, including the 15-meter-long Emily Wall, the Cheltenham warehouse houses her entire life’s work. Adults can visit for $20, while children are $10.

Gallery Gabrielle Pizzi

Since its inception since 1983, Gallery Gabrielle Pizzi has supported its artists first. Its founder, Gabrielle Pizzi, has constantly endeavored to make sure Aboriginal art is acknowledged as an essential part of Australia’s contemporary art scene. Book a time for a journey back and forth through history today.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

About the author

Matthew is a recent Monash University graduate with an enthusiasm for writing about the past, present and future of film, television and the arts world in Melbourne. Based in the Yarra Valley, he loves fresh food, a good time out with friends or going for a run.

If you click on a link in this story, we may earn affiliate revenue. All recommendations have been independently sourced by Culture Trip.
close-ad