Facts About Aboriginal Art You Should Know
Indigenous art that Aborigine–the native people of Australia who first settled in the land between 60,00 to 80,000 years ago invented is somehow still appeared on some places and occasions in Australia. This art is believed to be the oldest form of artistic expression in the world as archaeologists have since discovered rock art made with ochres, a natural clay earth pigment, that depicted narratives through symbols and icons since there was no written language at the time. This kind of Aboriginal art can’t be comprehended that easily since you’re supposed to understand its symbolism, iconography and meticulous rules. But there are some facts about this art which may give your curiosity some contentment.
1. Only an Aboriginal artist can produce Aboriginal art
It is said that Aboriginal art can only be considered as Aboriginal is painted by someone who is of that origin–Aborigines. A non-indigenous Australian doesn’t have the authority to paint an Aboriginal piece of artwork since a non-indigenous artist is not from a particular tribe, that’s why that person can’t represent any form of Aboriginal art.
2. Dots used to hide meanings
Aboriginal art is identic with dots painting. This dot painting itself is originated from the time of Aboriginal art movement when the people were concerned that non-initiates may be able to understand or learn the sacred, secret or restricted parts of their stories. Since then, it has become one of the most well-known style techniques, particularly for this art.
3. Artists need permission to paint a particular story
Aboriginal artists can’t paint a story that is not from their lineage. So, if they’re seeking to paint a story concerning historical or sacred information, they must ask for permission before they proceed to make one.
4. Aboriginal people do not have a written language
Due to the fact that Aboriginals do not have a formal written language, the artwork they tend to portray is a visual story. Without words to communicate, pictures take their place. Aboriginal languages in spoken form do not exist like they once did either. Also, each tribe has a different dialect; there are about 500 different Aboriginal languages.
5. Symbols are central to Aboriginal art
Since Aboriginal artwork is a form of visual storytelling, each tribe has its own symbols that relate to a certain meaning. There are some iconic symbols that are relevant to multiple tribes and that include eagle feet, waterholes, and digging sticks. Colors can also be linked to certain meanings as well, but this is quite rare because only some tribes can understand colors relate to which meaning.
It is truly a good thing for Australian to conserve this amazing art until the present time. It is shown from how many Australian corporate gifts which are decorated and designed uniquely based on Aboriginal art.
