Week Seven Lecture - Reflection

I really enjoyed this week's lecture as we were shown examples from Arnhem Land, showcasing a variety of styles all experimenting with the use of line and tension. As a Visual Communications student, I connect more with this style as these artists focus on the use of negative space and line. I particularly love the use of white on black, as this creates a bold yet simplified texture. The example below exemplifies this point, as well as the traditional technique of cross-hatching. This is a technique that is native to this region, and I enjoy the intensity it showcases. It almost appears like a tile mural.


Additionally, this style of Indigenous art holds a concentration on tone rather than colour. These prominent tones descend from the ochre used within this region, enabling a collection of browns and beiges to be showcased. This creates a warmth that contrasts with the use of tension from the linear lines. This juxtaposition is very similar to my own style of graphic design, and thus I feel a connection with the Arnhem Land style.


Another interesting point that I discovered is that the region is home to a collection of the world's oldest art work. A rock art that depicted the form of the Genyornis, a native flightless bird, was discovered last year and is said to be nearly 40, 000 years old. The Sydney Morning Herald reports, 


"The genyornis, a flightless bird which stood three times the height of an emu, was one of many megafauna to became extinct when humans began burning the continent for hunting and land-clearing 40,000 years ago."


I found this information to be enlightening, as it proclaims that the history of the Australian art culture is the oldest in the world. It is inspiring to discover this point, as it gives me a further understanding of the significant of Indigenous art to contemporary society. As previously stated, I feel a connection to the linear art movement of this region as it is similar to my own style. It is interesting to discover a relationship one has with a culture that has been alive for thousands of years.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/art-and-design/arnhem-land-art-could-be-worlds-oldest-20100531-wrgs.html#ixzz1XtMtNUQU