When the urban artist collective Boomalli struck out onto the Sydney art scene thirty-five years ago, the ten founding members expanded ideas of what contemporary Aboriginal art could be, adding a politically-aware, cosmopolitan aesthetic to conventional assumptions about Aboriginal art in 1980s Australia. Representing multiple language groups from across the continent, Boomalli created a space from which emerging First Nations artists are able to reimagine and reaffirm Aboriginal representation and experience. Today, a new generation of First Nations artists is engaging with the defining social and political movements of our time.
Two of those artists, Thea Anamara Perkins (Arrernte and Kalkadoon) and Katie West (Yindjibarndi), join moderator Brendan O’Donnell for a live discussion about the art they are making, the future role of art in the public sphere, and whether there are any limits on what Aboriginal art can be.
The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia is the only museum outside of Australia dedicated to the exhibition and study of Indigenous Australian art. Whether onsite or online, we aim to amplify Indigenous perspectives and foster inspirational cross-cultural experiences to deepen appreciation and understanding of our shared humanity. We believe the most inspiring journeys are personal, immersive, uplifting and enlightening, with twists and turns we can’t predict. We provide platforms for you to chart your own path as you explore our unique collection of art and stories that are embedded with deep historical and cultural significance.
We are located in Charlottesville, Virginia and came to exist through the generosity of two prominent American collectors, Edward L. Ruhe and John W. Kluge. To learn more, visit us at kluge-ruhe.org.