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.
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.
Opening hours: Every day, 10am-5pm
The Ian Potter Centre, Federation Square, Cnr. Flinders & Russell Street, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, +61 3 8662 1543
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.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 11am-5pm
Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art, 90 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9663 5133
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.
Opening hours: Every day, 11am-4:30pm
Outback Aboriginal Art, 3 Neave Street, Hawthorn East, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9882 7696
Aranda Contemporary is the homebase of the Vice President of the Australian Indigenous Art Trade Association, Adam Knight. Specializing in the valuation of Aboriginal art, the gallery allows visits for buyers and casual viewers alike via appointment.
Opening hours: By appointment only
Aranda Contemporary, 1185 High Street, Armadale, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9822 2400
Redrock Gallery has hosted several famous faces over the years, including former American president Bill Clinton and former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd. Restricted to proper collectors only, the gallery houses a number of artists from Australia and around the world.
Opening hours: By appointment only for genuine buyers and collectors
Redrock Gallery, Elwood, VIC, Australia, +61 412 088 058
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.
Opening hours: By appointment only; Wed-Fri, 10:30am-5:30pm; Sat, 12pm-6pm
Gallery Gabrielle Pizzi, 51 Victoria Street, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9416 4170
