John Olsen, Howard Arkley, Lorna Ward Napanangka, and Del Kathryn Barton represent a vibrant cross-section of contemporary Australian art, each bringing unique perspectives and techniques to their work.

Olsen is celebrated for his dynamic depictions of the Australian landscape, using bold colours to convey movement and energy. Arkley’s iconic, stylised representations of suburban life and architecture reveal a deep engagement with Australian identity and environment, often infused with a playful, graphic quality. Sampler: Formal (1998(is one of four related paintings (including Contemporary, Modern, and Traditional), first shown in Arkley's 'Sampling' exhibition at Tolarno Galleries in November, 1998, and sourced from Arkley's copy of Gold's 1976 interior decorator book. According to the artist's Catalogue Raisonné, three other paintings are still extant in other private collections across Australia, with some of them having been exhibition at Heidi Museum of Modern Art

In contrast, Lorna Ward Napanangka’s work resonate with cultural narratives and connections to the land, reflecting her Indigenous heritage and storytelling traditions. The monochromatic, minimal mark making hides an intricate web of meaning. Meanwhile, Del Kathryn Barton’s intricate paintings explore themes of femininity and mythology, combining vivid colour and surreal imagery to create immersive, dreamlike worlds.

Together, these artists contribute to a rich tapestry of Australian art, each addressing themes of identity, nature, and culture through their distinctive lenses, illustrating to the public what it means to be an 'Australian' Artist.