At the recently concluded India Art Fair, Australia was represented by acclaimed Indigenous artist Darrell Sibosado and Chris Saines, Director of the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA).
Darrell, known for his contemporary interpretations of riji (carved pearl shell) traditions, transforms intricate geometric motifs into abstract artworks and installations. During an interaction, he shared insights into the inspirations behind his art. Meanwhile, Chris Saines spoke about the power of art as a bridge between cultures, highlighting its role in fostering dialogue and understanding.
Indigenous cultures around the world share many commonalities: Darrell Sibosado
Please tell us about your inspiration for the pieces you’re showcasing at the India Art Fair?
All my work is inspired by my culture and the motifs and symbols used in our traditional pearlshell carvings. I use contemporary media and techniques to reiterate that our ancient art and culture is still relevant within our contemporary lives.
Can you share your thoughts on the role of art in bridging cultural divides, especially in the context of Australia and India?
Indigenous cultures around the world share many commonalities - the link to the ancient, connection to their land and environment, the use of natural materials at hand, the significance of nature and natural phenomenon in our spirituality, myths and legends, our desire for our ancient lore to be acknowledged, accepted and respected in modern culture is something we all strive for. Although our symbols and motifs may differ, the context is very similar - this is mostly evident in our different arts practices from scarification and tattooing through to weaving and sand sculptures. We must celebrate our similarities as well as our differences. Before colonisation, aboriginal people were already interacting with travellers from Asia.
How do you see your work contributing to the dialogue between Australian culture and global art scenes?
I am intent on the acknowledgement of my work as "contemporary art" and although it is solidly grounded in ancient symbolism, that symbolism is still living and morphing and directs my life today. I utilise contemporary media and techniques to highlight that fact. Aboriginal art is the art of that continent, that place. Aboriginal art and culture is the original art and culture of Australia. I think the global art scene appreciates and understands this.
What are some challenges you face as an artist working in both traditional and contemporary art spaces?
The main challenge I face is the view that contemporary aboriginal art is not authentic aboriginal art - it is outside the safe little boxes people would like to keep us in. I also have the personal challenge of what information I can and cannot share in a contemporary space - it is a difficult balance but as long as I remain respectful to my traditions and the elders that passed this information on to me, I will retain integrity.
Each space is peopled by different people with different perceptions and being able to take your place in each is a challenge - none of my work is purely "traditional" or purely "contemporary" but I believe it can fit in both sectors - it is my job to tell and show how and why.
Any places in the country that you’re planning to visit?
I don't know India at all and was hoping to see more of India but I am on a very tight schedule back in Australia so I will only be here for the art fair, I probably won't even see much of Delhi. I will be back - I want to see the country and the people. I would like to get out of the city and into the Indian countryside as well.
This is an abridged version of the article.
