If you are interested in purchasing aboriginal art, there are a few ways to go about it ethically. There are many types of aboriginal art as well so you’ll need to learn about the different styles and which appeal to you so that you can make a selection. Try to find something that speaks to you personally so that it can have a unique place in your heart.
Some of the aboriginal art you see will include bark paintings which is one of the oldest forms of art that is found in Australia, history paintings, fiber art, ochre paintings, sculpture and wood carvings. There is also painting done on different materials such as linen, canvas and board. You will also be able to see urban art that provides different viewpoints of what is happening today in the world.
When you are looking for aboriginal art for sale, you can visit art exhibitions, galleries and museums to get an idea of the different styles that exist. There are also websites that display photos and engage in the ethical sale of this art. If there is an artist that you prefer after searching online, you can contact the representative of the artist in order to find out where the exhibitions are and when you are able to view it. This way, you will be able to get an idea of the full range of their work and style allowing you to pick something that resonates with you.
There are also many books that you can browse regarding aboriginal art. There are catalogues provided by different exhibitions that provide samples of the exhibits. You can collect these or see whether you can find this information online. You need to find a gallery that has a good reputation and sell authentic aboriginal art. This may be a little difficult to authenticate as there are many shops that display so-called aboriginal art that actually originate from a different country.
So you need to be very sure of the reputation of the gallery. There are certain ways that you can do that. You can check the trade members under The Aboriginal Art Association of Australia and search for members of The Indigenous Art Code which is a website that promotes ethical trading of such art. They will also have books to this effect. You will be able to find commercial galleries listed in The Aboriginal Art Directory. There are also different organizations that represent ethically operated businesses throughout the country and you will be able to ask them for leads as well.
Another way of buying is checking whether there are any prisons that sell inmates’ work and you will be able to find it at a reasonable price. You may have to check which prisons have such programmers and which galleries are affiliated with them regarding the sale of art. If you want to clarify the credibility of the art gallery or vendor that you are buying from, always ask questions so that you are sure of the ethical side of it and its authenticity.
