Vincent Namatjira’s rise to prominence in the Australian art scene marks a significant milestone in the representation of Indigenous voices in contemporary art. His vibrant and often satirical portraits not only pay homage to his cultural heritage but also serve as a platform for social and political critique. By portraying prominent figures from Australian history and politics, Namatjira brings attention to the ongoing issues faced by Indigenous communities, such as land rights, social injustice, and the reverberations of colonialism.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Vincent has actively contributed to arts education and advocacy within his community. He is involved with several initiatives aimed at inspiring and supporting young Indigenous artists, ensuring that their stories and perspectives are heard. His contributions extend beyond the canvas, as he uses his public profile to amplify discussions about Indigenous rights and cultural heritage.
Namatjira’s work has been exhibited in numerous prestigious galleries and museums, both nationally and internationally, garnering widespread acclaim. Some of his notable exhibitions include those at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the National Gallery of Australia. Despite his international recognition, Vincent remains deeply connected to his roots and continues to live and work in the remote township of Indulkana in South Australia. His art not only continues the legacy of his great-grandfather but also carves out a new path for future generations of Indigenous artists, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary perspectives to create powerful, resonant works.
Ames Yavuz, a leading contemporary art gallery in the Asia Pacific, presents its second solo exhibition by Western Aranda artist Vincent Namatjira OAM. Titled King Dingo, the exhibition features an ambitious new body of work, alongside two significant new paintings by artistic duo Alec Baker and Eric Barney, who are from Namatjira’s home in Indulkana, South Australia. King Dingo will be presented from 31 August – 5 October 2024 at Ames Yavuz’s second Sydney space on Commonwealth Street in Surry Hills, Sydney. Featuring major paintings that depict a dingo dressed in royal regalia, Namatjira’s new series is imbued with the artist’s signature biting and irreverent wit. King Dingo presents subversive portraits that are an unapologetic celebration of Aboriginal leadership, influenced by Namatjira’s ongoing research and engagement with his great-grandfather Albert Namatjira’s work as well as his own recent plein air painting expeditions on Country.
Namatjira will also present a video work adapted from his recent façade commission projected onto the National Gallery of Australia, which illuminated the building’s exterior during the 2024 Enlighten Festival. Titled Indigenous All Stars, this work highlights Namatjira’s Indigenous heroes and brings to life through animation great historical and contemporary leaders, including Eddie Koiki Mabo, Vincent Lingiari, Albert Namatjira, Adam Goodes, Cathy Freeman, Nicky Winmar, and the Tjilpi (senior men and elders) from his community. This work is accompanied by an original score created in collaboration with Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara guitarist-composer Jeremy Whiskey, also from Indulkana.
As part of the exhibition, Namatjira has invited collaborative artist duo Alec Baker and Eric Barney to present two new three-metre paintings that encapsulate Ngura (Country). Namatjira has acted as mentor to the Indulkana-based duo, which was recently celebrated in The Country Road + NGV First Nations Commissions: My Country. Together, the three artists tell a powerful story of friendship, exchange, and connection to Country.
Vincent Namatjira said: “These new paintings are about a reversal of colonial power and ownership. King Dingo represents Aboriginal strength, pride and resilience, and respect for Country, culture, and Indigenous leadership past and present. Long live the king!”
Ames Yavuz Founding Director Can Yavuz said: “When Vincent joined Ames Yavuz a year ago, I could not have imagined the remarkable journey we would embark on together. It has been an honour getting to know Vincent as a person and as an artist, and to learn about his history and connection to Country. Vincent is undoubtedly one of the most important storytellers of his generation, and I couldn’t be prouder to present his upcoming exhibition, King Dingo, in our new space in Sydney.”
Feature image: Vincent Namatjira, King Dingo (with skull), 2024, acrylic on linen, 167 x 198 cm. Courtesy the artist, Iwantja Arts and Ames Yavuz.