The National Indigenous Art Triennial in Canberra is a powerful event that delves into themes of legacy, rebirth, and renewal. It's a chance to reflect on what the rain washes away and what new life it brings.
Tony Albert, a renowned contemporary artist and Girramay/Yidinji/Kuku-Yalanji man, has taken on the role of artistic director for this year's triennial. Almost 20 years ago, he attended the inaugural event as an aspiring artist, and the impact of that experience has stayed with him. He recalls standing in the National Gallery of Australia, feeling the weight of institutional recognition for First Nations art.
"After the Rain" is the title of this triennial, and it's a name that carries deep meaning. Albert wanted to create an exhibition that went beyond representation and shifted the focus to authorship. He explains, "It's not just symbolic; it's a structural change." By allowing an artist to lead, the model transforms, empowering Blakfullas and giving them a voice in the process.
Albert's approach has been intentional and thoughtful. With only 10 featured projects, he has provided his artists with the time and resources they need to create their most seminal works. One such artist is Alair Pambegan, a Wik-Mungkan man and cultural custodian of the flying fox story. Pambegan's installation is a powerful example of this, with over 600 painted wooden carvings suspended from the ceiling, telling the story of the flying fox brothers.
But this triennial is not just about the art; it's also about the artists themselves and their journey. Albert has encouraged his featured artists to push boundaries and explore new artistic directions. He believes that this decolonizing and Indigenizing space should be led by the artists themselves. "Setting parameters was interesting, and I was surprised by the artists' responses every step of the way," he shares.
One artist whose work particularly resonates with Albert is Grace Kemarre Robinya. Her paintings have a simplistic yet powerful nature, and they connect strongly with the cultural and environmental themes Albert wanted to highlight. By providing Robinya with a series of canvases, she was able to create an incredible, monumental work that epitomizes the essence of "After the Rain."
However, despite the excitement and success of this triennial, there has been a longstanding issue with its frequency. Previous exhibitions have not always adhered to the intended three-year cycle. Albert hopes that this artist-led approach will set a precedent for the future, ensuring a more consistent and committed platform for Indigenous art.
"After the Rain" is a step towards sovereignty and autonomy for Blak arts professionals. It's a chance for artists to have their voices heard and their dreams realized. Albert's experience as artistic director has reinforced his desire for institutions to collaborate with artists on their terms, respecting their autonomy and vision.
The 5th National Indigenous Art Triennial: "After the Rain" is a must-see exhibition, running until April 26 at the National Gallery of Australia. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of Indigenous art and to reflect on the power of rebirth and renewal.
