Discover Western Desert Aboriginal culture by exploring the special meanings of Papunya-style dot patterns and their stories of land and culture.
This extraordinary family-friendly exhibition features a stunning collection of rarely seen large-scale paintings and artefacts. The dotted painting style has become firmly identified with Australia, yet few people are aware of the layers of meaning beneath their designs. The exhibition reveals and explains the stories and symbolism within the artworks. The artist's motifs – snakes and honey ants, dingoes and lizards, fire and water – all have special significance for the connections to their country.
The artworks and artefacts capture a unique chapter in the unfolding history of Aboriginal art. Wander amongst images rich with ancestral Dreaming stories and evocative cultural landscapes. Experience this world through the artists' eyes. For children there is even a special honey-ant trail to follow, drawing activities to do and stories to guide you.
This immersive exhibition features many colourful and detailed paintings towering two metres high and spanning three metres wide, complemented by rare examples of spears, boomerangs, shields and containers.
It's the perfect opportunity to experience Aboriginal desert life and culture in the heart of Sydney.
Admission (including Australian Museum general entry)
$15 adult
$10 concession/WYD08 pilgrims
$7 child (5–15 years)
$37/$22 family
Free children under 5 years of age
$5 additional child
$2 Australian Blue Concession Pension cardholders and Australian DVA Gold cardholders
Join the Australian Museum Members on the spot for free exhibition entry!
