AMDG

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Australian Aboriginal Art: A Little History

+ JMJ +

The native peoples of Australia, called Aborigines, have their own unique culture, art forms and traditions that differ from anywhere else in the world. 



They were secluded from outside influences by the Indian and Pacific Oceans until English settlement began in the late 18th century. 

Despite the coming of the English settlers, the ancient customs and art practices of the Aborigines have remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years.  Australia’s aboriginal peoples still practice one of the world’s oldest continuous artistic traditions.

Thousands of festival-goers also attended. (AAP: Dave Hunt)

Aboriginal Festival in Australia


Some of the world's longest surviving art forms are found in Australia, like ancient Aboriginal rock carvings 

endangered rock art on the burrup peninsular


... ancient rock paintings ...



... as well as bark paintings .... 

Kangaroo Totem Bark Painting

ARNHEMLAND BARK PAINTING
Eucalyptus bark, natural earth pigments
 Arnhemland, Northern Territory, Australia


As you can see, Australian rock and bark art are some of the most spectacular in the world.

 
"Dot Painting" is another traditional Aboriginal art form in which minute dots, painted with natural pigments from plants and seeds, are used to create patterns and symbols.


Contemporary Aboriginal art still uses natural canvases, such as bodies, wooden planks or rock carvings, as they have been for thousands of years.



No comments:

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails