Australian Consulate in Chennai Hosts Exhibition of Aboriginal Art

From 6 to 17 April, the Australian Consulate-General in Chennai is presenting an exhibition of Aboriginal Art that underscores the significance Australia attaches to its First Nations cultures as an essential part of its national identity. The exhibition, called "Jarracharra," after a unique wind that blows across Arnhem Land in Australia's far north during the dry season, features a variety of screen-printed textiles by female First Nations artists from the Babbarra Women's Centre. The artists' creations break artistic boundaries by portraying ancient narratives through modern mediums. The exhibit also features woodblock prints on paper. During the launch event, Australian Consul General for South India, Ms Sarah Kirlew, expressed her hope that the Indian audience would learn more about Australia's diverse, strong, and vibrant First Nations cultures and develop a broader understanding of what modern Australia represents and stands for by visiting Jarracharra.

Australia's First Nations people have been inhabiting the land for over 65,000 years and have the oldest continuous culture on the planet. The country is committed to sharing their stories and art with the world, as evidenced by its recent appointment of its first Ambassador for First Nations People in March 2023 to elevate the perspectives of First Nations people in its diplomacy.

Jarracharra has toured prominent galleries worldwide and has recently visited Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi before arriving in Chennai. For the first time, the exhibition includes new pieces and woodblocks created collaboratively when artists from the Babbarra Women's Centre visited the Tharangini studio in Bengaluru in early 2023. The new textiles blend traditional Indian woodblock carving and printing with Indigenous Australian designs. Since its launch at the Australian Embassy in Paris in 2019, Jarracharra has been on an international tour.

The Chief Guest and speaker for the exhibition launch was Ms Sudha Ravi, an expert on India's rich heritage traditions. The Consulate thanked Ms Ahalya S of Kingsley and Kanakavalli for hosting the exhibition.

Jarracharra is open to the public from 7 to 17 April, 11 am &ndash 6 pm, at Kingsley, 60 Spurtank Road, Chetpet, Chennai 600031.