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Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia

Indigenous painting with large brushtrokes and shapes of colour
Indigenous painting with large brushtrokes and shapes of colour

Overview

A survey of historical and contemporary works of art by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia, this exhibition draws from the national collection and Wesfarmers Collection of Australian Art.

Although Ever Present is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, it does not shy away from Australia’s complex histories. The works challenge stereotypes about First Nations people and what defines their art. The artists contest populist views of Australian history, using art as a tool of resistance and replacing physical weaponry with wit, satire and juxtaposition to confront viewers and encourage conversations that are essential to disputing outdated myths and ideologies.

Ever Present includes over 260 works from more than 200 artists as it considers seven overarching and interlinked themes: Ancestors + Creators; Country + Constellations; Community + Family; Culture + Ceremony; Trade + Influence; Resistance + Colonisation; and Innovation + Identity.

Together the works underline the ever-present existence of our First Peoples.

Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia is presented by the National Gallery of Australia and Wesfarmers Arts.

Dates

14 Sep 2024 – 6 Aug 2025
December 2024
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January 2025
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February 2025
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March 2025
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April 2025
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May 2025
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June 2025
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July 2025
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August 2025
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Map of the venue locationMap of the venue location
National Gallery of AustraliaParkes Place East, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory, AustraliaGet Directions
Facilities
  • Cafe
  • Family Friendly
  • Lockers
  • Parents Room
  • Public Toilet
  • Shop / Gift Shop
  • Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
  • Caters for people who use a wheelchair.

Contacts

02 6240 6411
[email protected]
nga.gov.au

When

Next on today

Where

National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes

Price

Free

Accessibility

Actively welcomes people with access needs.