Melbourne, Australia – In celebration of NAIDOC Week, Bluethumb, Australia’s leading online art marketplace, is thrilled to announce its largest Indigenous art exhibition to date. The exhibition, running from September 3rd to 9th at Bluethumb’s Melbourne and Adelaide galleries, will showcase over 100 stunning works by renowned First Nations artist Maria Watson-Trudgett and emerging talents from eight esteemed Indigenous Art Centres across the country. Bluethumb Ignites NAIDOC Week with Largest Indigenous Art Exhibition
A Tapestry of Indigenous Creativity
Aligned with the 2024 NAIDOC Week theme, the exhibition aims to illuminate the extraordinary creative journeys of First Nations artists and foster a deeper appreciation for Indigenous culture.
Brisbane-based Wiradyuri artist Maria Watson-Trudgett takes center stage with her captivating depictions of the rivers and landscapes that shaped her upbringing. Through her art, Watson-Trudgett shares the rich history and traditions of the Wiradyuri people, renowned for their hunting, fishing, gathering, and bush tracking skills. With over two decades of artistic dedication, her works have graced national and international private collections, galleries, and Reconciliation Action Plans.
“I am honored to participate in the NAIDOC Week Exhibition and share my Aboriginal culture with the Bluethumb community,” expressed Watson-Trudgett. “This week is a powerful platform to recognize the invaluable contributions of First Nations peoples to our society. Bluethumb has been instrumental in allowing me to connect with art lovers worldwide and contribute to preserving the world’s oldest living culture.”
A Celebration of Indigenous Art Centres
Beyond Watson-Trudgett’s exceptional talent, the exhibition will feature original artworks from eight Indigenous Art Centres representing the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Central Australia, and Queensland. These art centres play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and supporting local communities.
Renowned artist Mervyn Rubuntja from lltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre and emerging stars Antonia Napangardi Michaels and Reanne Nampijinpa Brown from Warlukurlangu are among the many talented artists participating in this extraordinary showcase.
Bluethumb’s Commitment to Indigenous Art
In response to the growing appreciation for Indigenous art, Bluethumb has opened a dedicated gallery space, Studio Gallery 2, in Richmond to exclusively exhibit First Nations artworks.
Bluethumb co-founder, George Hartley, emphasized the company’s mission to make Indigenous art accessible to a global audience. “Art sales are often a lifeline for remote communities. Through our platform, we aim to connect artists with new collectors and contribute to the economic prosperity of these regions. This NAIDOC Week exhibition is a testament to the vibrant spirit of our Indigenous communities, and we are proud to share their stories with the world.”
For over a decade, Bluethumb has partnered with more than 28 Indigenous Art Centres, empowering artists to share their culture and connect with art enthusiasts worldwide. With over 100,000 original artworks sold and $50 million returned to artists, Bluethumb has become a catalyst for artistic careers and financial independence.
Exhibition Details
- Exhibition: Keep the Fire Burning
- Dates: September 3-9, 2024
- Locations:
- Melbourne gallery – 330 Bridge Rd, Richmond (Open Monday-Wednesday, Friday 9am-5.30pm, Thursday 11.30am-8pm, Saturday 10am-4pm)
- Adelaide gallery – 72A King William Rd, Goodwood (Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9am-5pm, Thursday 9am-8pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm)
- Admission: Free
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We provide Indigenous products, music, art and news.
If you want Indigenous gifts and merchandise, bush tucker food at your next event or Indigenous entertainment at your next party, expo or conference, feel free to contact us!
Visit our page: https://nicc.org.au/
Tony Clemenger.
Chief Executive Officer.
Tel: 0419431649.
Level 1 397 Chapel Street South Yarra 3141.
