Old Masters: Australia's Great Bark Artists

Yirawala: The Picasso of Arnhem Land

Introduction to Yirawala

• Yirawala, an influential artist from West Arnhem Land, is often referred to as 'the Picasso of Arnhem Land' due to his significant impact on the region's art scene.

• He held a high ritual status and mentored many younger artists featured in the exhibition "Old Masters."

Innovations in Bark Painting

• His painting "Totemic Crocodile" exemplifies his innovative approach, showcasing variations in clan patterns through parallel and diagonal lines.

• Unlike European art where younger artists drive innovation, Aboriginal Australian art sees senior artists like Yirawala introducing changes based on their extensive knowledge.

The Old Masters Exhibition

Purpose and Collection

• The National Museum aimed to highlight the beauty and significance of bark painting as a high art form through the "Old Masters" exhibition.

• Featuring 122 paintings from a collection of over 2000—largest globally—many artworks were previously unseen in Australia.

Artistic Traditions and Lineage

• The exhibition explores how artistic traditions are passed down through generations, focusing on familial artistic dynasties and master-student relationships.

David Malangi: A Unique Perspective

Autobiographical Elements

• David Malangi's painting "Tree Spirit" reflects macabre spirit beings associated with death, drawn in an X-ray style that reveals internal features like ribs.

• Known as 'dollar Dave,' one of his works was featured on Australia's original $1 note introduced in 1966, highlighting the intersection of personal experience and modernity in bark painting.

Mawalan Marika's Vision

Depicting Modern Landscapes

• Mawalan Marika’s "Sydney from the Air," painted after his first visit to Sydney in 1961, uses traditional East Arnhem Land techniques to depict urban landscapes as seen from above.

Narritjin Maymuru: Cultural Significance

Coat of Arms Interpretation

• Narritjin Maymuru’s painting "Coat of Arms" features a kangaroo (earth) and emu (sky), reconfiguring familiar elements to emphasize Aboriginal culture's importance within Australia's diverse society.

Call to Action for Viewers

• The speaker encourages audiences to visit "Old Masters," emphasizing its role in introducing one of humanity's oldest continuing art traditions while celebrating its unique Australian identity.