SPOTLIGHT ON BARKS

Historically bark paintings were created for ceremonial use, however today, they are a form of artistic expression and economy that is highly sought after and collected around the world. Bark paintings in Australia predominately originate in northern Australia from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, thru to the Kimberley’s in Western Australia. The designs seen on the paintings are passed down generationally thru family members and often cannot be recreated by another artist. Based on sacred designs, each artist has a unique voice within the clan, producing beautiful paintings that are particular to them and their story. Abstraction and symbolism are used effectively by bark painters to create intricate delicate works depicting traditional Dreaming stories or maps.

The bark for the paintings is collected in Wet Season, with bark chosen that is free from blemishes such as knots and burrs. Tools are used to slice and gently peel off the inner smooth bark which is then placed in a fire or riverbed, before being flattened until it is dry and ready to paint on. In today’s Spotlight, Short St Gallery presents a selection of barks from across Arnhem Land, featuring beautiful paintings from the freshwater people thru to the saltwater people. You can view the selection via the link below. Price lists can be requested via email on enquiries@shortstgallery.com.

In our efforts to continue to support and promote the industry we love and the artists we work with during the pandemic, Short St Gallery are doing Artist Profiles and Community Spotlights regularly, often with a special promotion, so keep your eyes on our emails in 2021 for that little bit of something special. We are offering free domestic shipping for the work to be sent off stretch from APY Men until the end of June 2021.
You can access our fun View on a Wall option by clicking on an image and then selecting View on a Wall. You can contact us via email or phone for all enquiries, to arrange a live chat or have additional images sent to you. We will also be posting videos and still footage of the featured artworks on our social media accounts to bring a little bit of the joy of art to your lounge rooms.