How to Buy Genuine Australian Aboriginal Art

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Buying genuine Australian Aboriginal art can be a great way to support Aboriginal artists and communities. Here are some tips to help you ensure that the art you are buying is authentic:

Buy from reputable galleries or dealers: Look for galleries or dealers that specialize in Aboriginal art and have a good reputation for selling authentic pieces. They should be able to provide you with information about the artist and the artwork. The Mandel aboriginal art gallery in Alphington has stunning pieces from artists all over Australia.

Look for a certificate of authenticity: A certificate of authenticity is a document that confirms the artwork's origin, artist, and authenticity. Many reputable dealers and galleries will provide this documentation with your purchase.

Research the artist: Learn about the artist and their background, including where they are from and what their work represents. This can help you ensure that the art is authentic and that you are supporting the artist and their community. The Koorie Heritage Trust is an Indigenous not-for-profit cultural organisation based in Melbourne. It holds over 100,000 items in its collection from paintings and artefacts through to books, videos and photographs and an online store: www.koorieheritagetrust.com.au

Avoid mass-produced or imitation art: Be wary of art that is mass-produced or sold in tourist shops. These pieces may not be authentic or may not support the artist or their community. Kinya Lerrk in Preston is a creative partnership between Aboriginal visual artists Emma Bamblett (Wemba Wemba, Gunditjmara, Ngadjonji and Taungurung) and Megan Van Den Berg (Dja Dja Wurrung, Yorta Yorta and Boon Wurrung). They have a long history of collaborating on arts and design projects. Kinya Lerrk specializes in using design and art to bring vibrant, colourful designs into homes and offices. Their creations celebrate Aboriginal culture and pay respect to the traditional owners of the land.

Understand the cultural significance of the artwork: Aboriginal art often has deep cultural and spiritual significance. Understanding the meaning behind the artwork can help you appreciate its value and significance. Baluk Arts in Mount Eliza has online information about the cultural significance of their artwork. Their gallery is open to the public Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm at time of publication.

I had heard while doing some research, that there are restrictions around the ownership and playing of a didgeridoo. The didgeridoo is a musical instrument that originates from Indigenous Australian culture and has been played for thousands of years. It is a long, wooden, wind instrument that produces a deep, resonant sound.

In terms of playing the didgeridoo, there can be restrictions and cultural protocols associated with playing one. It is important to respect the cultural significance of the instrument and the traditions associated with it. Some Indigenous communities may have specific protocols or guidelines around the playing and ownership of the didgeridoo, so it is always best to seek guidance and permission from the appropriate community or elder.

When it comes to buying an authentic didgeridoo, like art, it is important to do your research and ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable source. There are many fake or mass-produced didgeridoos on the market, so it is important to look for a seller who can provide information about the provenance of the instrument and its authenticity. You may also consider purchasing directly from an Indigenous artist or artisan, who can provide a unique and authentic piece.

By following these tips, you can feel confident that you are buying authentic Australian Aboriginal art and supporting Aboriginal artists and communities.

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