Bypass the global Aboriginal art market and meet with local indigenous artists to understand the history behind their authentic artworks.
The Anangu people began transferring rock, sand and body paintings to canvas in the 1970s when western materials were distributed among desert communities. Since then national and international demand for this ancient practice of cultural storytelling has increased and is now a multi-million dollar industry.
Bypass the global market and meet with local indigenous artists to understand the history behind these authentic artworks. Be inspired by the same blue and ochre hues of a desert landscape that has been painted for thousands of years.
Maruku and Walkatjara
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre has two main art galleries that source indigenous artworks from hundreds of communities throughout the western desert region. The award winning Maruku Arts has a diverse range of art including woven baskets, punu (woodwork) and traditional paintings on canvas, and features demonstrations with local artists.
The Walkatjara Art Centre is owned and operated by artists from the Mutitjulu community. The artists hand paint designs based on the Tjukurpa and the landscape. These images are part of the ancient storytelling traditions central to Anangu culture and heritage.
Mulgara
Located in the foyer of the Sails in the Desert Hotel at Ayers Rock Resort, the Mulgara Gallery is home to broad array of Australian and indigenous artwork. Browse through unique Central Australian indigenous art including dot painting from Papunya and Mt Allen, and artefacts such as didgeridoos, rainsticks and other tribal instruments.
Every month, Mulgara Gallery runs the ‘artists and craftsperson in residence’ program. Painters include popular indigenous artist, Maureen Nampitjinpa Hudson, who exhibits and sells her work worldwide. This program provides a unique opportunity to meet and watch these talented artists at work.
