PA/11/15 29 May 2015
An exhibition of indigenous art to mark National Reconciliation Week
The Indian community in New Delhi will be able to share in the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s Indigenous people during National Reconciliation Week.
The 15th anniversary of National Reconciliation Week coincides with a groundbreaking exhibition of Indigenous art at DLF Place Saket.
‘Yiwarra Kuju: The Canning Stock Route’ provides a window on the artistic, cultural and natural worlds of the Aboriginal people of Australia’s Western Desert. The artists draw on both traditional art conventions and new figurative styles to recount their sacred and secular life experiences through their art.
Australia’s Acting High Commissioner, Bernard Philip, said the exhibition helped fulfil one of the key aims of National Reconciliation Week by promoting a greater understanding of the unique culture and history of the first inhabitants of Australia.
“National Reconciliation Week is celebrated to mark the rich culture and history of the first Australians - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Mr Philip said.
“This exhibition showcases the creative powers of indigenous artists, and is a powerful illustration of their deep and enduring connection to the land.”
Nearly 70 artists travelled along the 1850-kilometre Canning Stock Route for the exhibition, on a six-week intensive engagement with their country. Over 100 artworks were produced during the expedition, and a selection of these were reproduced and are on display at DLF Place Saket until 22 June, 2015.
National Reconciliation Week is celebrated across Australia annually from May 27 to June 3.
The Acting High Commissioner said National Reconciliation Week provided an opportunity for all Australians to draw closer together.
“It is important we continue to appreciate that Australia has an ongoing responsibility to acknowledge the contribution of Indigenous Australians to the nation that we have become today,” Mr Philip said.
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