Some of Us
The Lockhart River Art Gang
27 March – 7 June 2009

Real to Surreal, Scenes from the Centre: Journey with the new generation of Hermannsburg watercolour artists
Ngurratjuta Iltja Ntjarra; MANY HANDS ART CENTRE
24 April – 12 July 2009

Some of Us is a vibrant and dynamic exhibition of paintings and prints from the Lockhart River ‘Art Gang’, a group of young Aboriginal artists based on the east coast of Cape York. The Lockhart River Art Gang was formed in 1994 and their work is a contemporary response to the environment, culture and traditions of this isolated Aboriginal Community. It expresses some of the realities of being Aboriginal and the strong influences of traditional culture and values in their world. They have developed their own forms of expression which are very different from the art of other parts of Australia. The art from Lockhart River promotes the cultural identity of Aboriginal people in contemporary Australian culture.

“I like painting, for me it is like a way to communicate to the national and international community; telling the stories of my people and country and also our neighbouring clans. We tell the sacred stories that are passed down by our ancestors.” - Patrick Butcher, Chairman, Lockhart River Arts Centre

Also showing is new work from Ngurratjuta Iltja Ntjarra; MANY HANDS ART CENTRE. Although the art centre is situated in Alice Springs, its roots are in Hermannsburg; an area famous for beautiful watercolours. Many Hands is the only art centre who supports the descendants of Albert Namatjira, and Real to Surreal, Scenes from the Centre: Journey with the new generation of Hermannsburg watercolour artists is an opportunity to witness the direct influence the legendary artist has had on his family and community.

Some of Us and Real to Surreal, Scenes from the Centre: Journey with the new generation of Hermannsburg watercolour artists are part of the 2009 Come Out Festival, and will be opened on 24 April at 6pm.