This course is fully booked. Enrolments are still open for our First Peoples Art & Design from Australia: Online Course, commencing 1 November. Learn more >
With direct access to specialist knowledge and the internationally significant NGV Collection.
This introductory course shares how contemporary Indigenous Art is informed by deep connections to history, Country and culture. Discover work from around the continent through a close study of significant works in the NGV Collection.
Over four evening sessions, NGV Curators are joined by artists and Community leaders to guide you on a journey of learning and discovery. Each week, join fellow learners for intimate sessions held after-hours at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. Participants can enjoy light refreshments in the Members Lounge, before touring the galleries.
Hear the stories behind some of the most significant works in the NGV Collection and learn about the diverse approaches that First Nations artists use in their work. As we explore how First Peoples continue to reclaim and reinvent traditional practices through art, this course will expand your understanding of Indigenous Art.
This course will run on Wednesday evenings from 28 August – 18 September, 6–8pm.
- Gain an introductory knowledge of First Nations art and culture in Australia and understand some key concepts, such as a profound connection to Country
- Understanding of the breadth and diversity of First Nations art across Australia
- Understanding the development of First Peoples art before the British arrived in Australia, as well as post-European settlement
- Gain knowledge of key practitioners in contemporary First Nations art and design.
- Develop skills in interpreting and discussing First Nations art and design.
COURSE OUTLINE
Week One: An Introduction to First Nations Art and Culture
Discover through 65,000 years of history the distinctive artistic styles and practices that have emerged in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. From artists working before colonisation, through to artists working today, this week lays the foundation for deeper conversations in future sessions.
This week, we explore the frameworks that have influenced the awareness and reception of First Nations art at local and international levels. Be introduced to the role of art centres, exhibitions and awards, the place of archival and historical documents in contemporary First Nations art, and consider more recent approaches to the integration of colonial and First Nations histories through works on display.
Week Three: Identity – Ruptured & Reimagined
While the history of colonisation in Australia has resulted in particular representations or ideals of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and art, Indigenous artists also rupture stereotypes and narratives about ‘Indigeneity’ in their work.
Week Four: The Future is Indigenous
In the final week of the course, we turn our attention to new modes of First Nations art and design, including ‘Futurism’. We investigate the myths and misconceptions around the relationship between tradition and the contemporary and consider First Nations perspectives on the future.
Myles Russell-Cook is Senior Curator, Australian and First Nations Art, NGV.
Michael Gentle is Curator, First Nations Art, NGV.
Edwina Green is Curator, First Nations Art, NGV.
Sophie Gerhard is Curator, Australian and First Nations Art, NGV.
INFORMATION FOR TEACHERS & EDUCATORS
Four-Week Course: First Peoples Art & Design from Australia offers an inspiring and creative professional learning opportunity for teachers of all levels and subjects. This Four Week Course meets the following AITSL standards:
A certificate of professional learning is available on request.
This course is part of NGV Adult Learning, offering online courses, in-person courses, talks and livestreamed events to support avid learners of all ages to confidently embrace the world of art, design and ideas. Learn more