From its inception, Gallery Gondwana worked exclusively with a core group of pioneering Indigenous artists. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, art centres were scarce, and when they were eventually established in remote areas, they primarily served the artists living within their specific regions.
This left a significant group of highly talented artists, who had chosen to make Alice Springs their home, without the support of these art centres. Among them were renowned artists like Dorothy Napangardi, her auntie Mitjili Napanangka Gibson and her daughter, Julie Nangala Robertson, Linda Syddick Napaltjarri, Dr. George Tjapaltjarri, Barney Campbell Tjakamarra, Polly Napangardi Watson and Barbara Napangarti Reid. Many of these artists had previously worked with the Centre for Aboriginal Artists, a government-run gallery in Alice Springs.
Before founding Gallery Gondwana, Director Roslyn Premont managed the government gallery from 1987 to 1990. During her tenure, the federal government withdrew its funding as Aboriginal art began to gain wider recognition. It was felt that private enterprise could take over the role of promoting Aboriginal art, marking a pivotal moment for the industry. This shift allowed Gallery Gondwana to play a key role in supporting and elevating the work of Indigenous artists based in Alice Springs.
Before founding Gallery Gondwana, Director Roslyn Premont managed the government-run gallery in Alice Springs from 1987 to 1990. During her time there, the federal government withdrew its funding, as Aboriginal art was gaining broader recognition and it was believed that private enterprise could assume the role of promoting this important cultural movement.
In 1990, Gallery Gondwana became one of the first privately owned galleries to open in Alice Springs, and many of the notable artists mentioned earlier followed Roslyn to her new venture.
To further support their creativity, a dedicated studio space was established adjacent to the gallery, where artists were nurtured, encouraged, and given the freedom to experiment and push the boundaries of their practice. This was a truly exciting time, as these artists were able to fully explore their talents in a supportive environment, helping to shape the future of contemporary Indigenous art.
In addition to representing its key artists, Gallery Gondwana has always ensured that all other artworks are ethically sourced from art centres across Australia, maintaining a strong commitment to supporting Indigenous artists and communities.
In line with this philosophy—and inspired by Australia’s deep connection to the Pacific, reflecting the ancient Gondwana landmass—Gallery Gondwana expanded internationally, opening a gallery in Denarau, Fiji, in 2018. The gallery now operates out of the Rusiate Lali Studio near Suva, continuing to embrace and promote artistic connections across the region.
After nearly three decades of serving the public through its galleries in Alice Springs and Sydney, Gallery Gondwana transitioned in 2011, closing its retail locations and shifting its focus to an online presence and a dedicated showroom.
The showroom, located at the Gondwana Sculpture Garden property, offers a more personal experience, where visitors can arrange appointments to meet with Aboriginal art specialists and view a broader selection of artworks. This approach allows clients to engage with the art in a more intimate setting, while still upholding the gallery's long-standing reputation for showcasing exceptional Indigenous art.
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