Indigenous Masterworks: Works from the Papunya Tula, Utopia & Tiwi Islands Artists

This exhibition features large-scale canvases by the leading figures in Indigenous Art. By focusing on these expansive canvases, the exhibition offers an insight and exploration of Indigenous artistic expression, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the depth and diversity of the many facets of the First Nations' cultures. Through these artworks, we witness the evolution of Indigenous pictorial language and engage with themes of identity, country, spirituality, and heritage. The exhibition serves as a platform for dialogue, recognition, and celebration firmly cementing these diverse practices as canonical works.

It was during these years, towards the end of the 1990's, that  a subtle shift occurred amongst the Papunya Tula and other artists. They embarked upon a stylistic departure from traditional cultural practices towards the development of a new artistic style. George and Willy Tjungurrayi, in common with Ronnie Tjampitjinpa and Turkey Tolson Tjupurrula,  abandoned traditional conventions in conveying the ancient narratives that informed their view of their country towards a new language and a new way of seeing.

By bringing together this remarkable selection of works by renowned Indigenous artists, Lennox St. Gallery aims to foster a greater understanding,  appreciation, and celebration of the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of Indigenous communities.

We acknowledge the traditional owners and sovereign custodians of the land on which Lennox St. Gallery is situated, the Wurundjeri people of the Woiwurrung language group. We extend our respect to their Ancestors and all First Peoples and Elders past, present, and future.