Can you share a memorable experience that’s reinforced your
passion for the art business?
In general, the genuine enthusiasm received from the constant gallery
visitors is a highlight. Visitors often comment that they didn't realise
Aboriginal artwork was so beautiful and contemporary. Many people
had the view that Aboriginal artwork was just dots or earthy colours,
with many purchasers often saying they never thought they would
have bought a piece of Indigenous art for that reason. Our gallery
changes views and starts conversations, and that is a wonderful
outcome for all Australians.
Your gallery has gained a reputation for promoting Australian
Indigenous artists and voices from the across the country. How do
you see the role of these artists evolving in the global art market?
We have been fortunate enough to have worked with the identified
founding artists of our movement. Artists such as Emily Kame
Kngwarreye, Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, and Rover Thomas;
their individual styles have been elevated to a serious level
internationally, and deservedly so.
Artists who essentially came slightly later but exercised a style in
the most artistically gifted and beautiful way such as Sally Gabori,
Warlimpirrnga Tjapaltjarri, Yukultji Napangati, Daniel Walbidi, and
Vincent Namatjira have also risen to international acclaim.
With the recent exhibitions and promotions by the likes of Steve
Martin, and with support by industry leaders such as Larry Gagosian,
the market appears very potent. The late Emily Kame Kngwarreye
has a solo exhibition at the Tate Modern next year.
Are there any emerging trends or movements within Indigenous
art that you’re particularly excited about or believe will shape the
future of the industry?
As art movements go, Aboriginal Art could be considered still in its
infancy as it has been running for a relatively short period of time.
It is the only art movement in our history to completely evolve out
of itself, i.e. most other art movements are an evolution or adaption
of a previous movement. Whilst the works are generated with cultural
knowledge and wisdom, their outstanding visual cannot be ignored.
The number of Aboriginal artists creating new, inventive, beautiful
yet contemporary works derived from their cultural knowledge and
ancestors is extraordinary, with new stars arising all the time.
The second or third generation of artists is a very exciting progression
to observe, with the collision of cultures from all over the world
having an impact on Aboriginal Art. Aboriginal artists are now being
considered amongst the most important contemporary artists -
not just protectors and promoters of cultural knowledge.
Sorrento Contemporary | 85-99 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento
sorrentocontemporary.com.au
February 2025
In Focus Magazine
11