2020 IB Extended Essays

How can the representation of Australian stories in the works of contemporary Indigenous artists improve the intergenerational futures of the First Nation peoples? Introduction Today, the lives of Indigenous Australian peoples continue to be affected by the tragedies that their ancestors had to endure upon the arrival of British explorers. The Australian government attempts to compensate for the intergenerational trauma that colonisation has created for the First Nation peoples through providing programs which focus on improving the health, education, employment, and community safety of those who identify as Indigenous Australian. However, these programs only do so

much in ‘closing the gap' for the Indigenous peoples.

Art is a foundation of the Aboriginal Australian culture. Traditionally, different art mediums were used within Indigenous communities to share their cultural stories through symbols/icons in their artwork. The innovation of western art visual motifs

within Indigenous art presents more contemporary pieces that don’t exactly follow

the traditional style that was performed by these artists’ ancestors. However, the

generation of Indigenous artists today still continue to produce works that share the stories of their culture as a means of preserving and honouring the future of Aboriginal Australia.

This essay will explore the importance of art for Aboriginal peoples, not only as a tool for communication but also in ameliorating the impact that trans-generational trauma has on future generations. The visual cues in the works of four prominent contemporary Indigenous artists will be analysed, to develop a better understanding