How to ethically source and purchase Indigenous art in Australia

Artworks created by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are beautiful and valuable. These artworks depict knowledge, culture, stories and connection to country, language and tradition. However, if you wish to buy an authentic piece of art by First Nations Australians, it’s integral that you do so ethically to ensure that you are not only purchasing an authentic piece of art, but that you are supporting the artist and community by whom the art was made. This is important as, for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, art sales can be a main source of income for the artist and their community.

“Ethical dealings ensure the economic benefits are being filtered to the right areas and we are contributing to the continuation of traditional cultural practices, through ceremonies, storytelling, and creative mediums,” explains Matthew Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia. “This ensures integrity is maintained and intellectual property is kept with the right owners.”

Ask the right questions

Checking for authenticity

According to the Indigenous Art Code, any piece of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art valued at more than $250 and bought from an art centre, or gallery that sources art from art centres, will come with an official art centre authentication certificate.

“Documentation accompanying the works, such as artist's biographies and certificates of authenticity listing the provenance, the year the work was painted, and the artist’s story of the work, should accompany each artwork,” says Matthew.

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Do your homework

“We encourage consumers to do some research before purchasing art,” says Matthew. “Look up the art centres and artists, see why they exist and if they state their vision.” You can also use the following peak body organisations to verify the authenticity of businesses across the country: Arnhem, Northern and Kimberley Aboriginal Artist (ANKA), Aboriginal Art Centre Hub of WA (AACHWA), Desart (Aboriginal Art Centres from Central Australia) and the Indigenous Art Centre Alliance supporting Far North Queensland Art Centres (IACA).

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