Desert Stories

Papunya Tula Artists

Stories are the adhesives that bind our lives. Whether it’s the news, tales over dinner or cultural and religious narratives, we are all connected through stories. They provide connections to the familiar, reassurance, or precaution against the unknown; they inform and prepare us for the vast world in which we live. Without stories we have no community structure or no formal recognition of our place within it.
The stories that are shared in this exhibition were created thousands of years ago. Important narratives have been carried across time via rock and sand art, body painting, song, dance, carvings and the modern addition of painting on linen and canvas. These ancient narratives assist intergenerational learning and define codes of conduct within specific cultural practices, traditions, languages, laws and family structure. The act of painting these stories nurture relationships and bring community together.

Regardless of nationality, regardless of religion, the art of storytelling is a universal must. Moments spent with a stranger, a friend or family member are etched in our memories by the art of storytelling. Stories are central to our existence and our place in the world; they remind us that we are all connected.

Paul Johnstone Gallery in conjunction with Papunya Tula Artists is proud to present DESERT STORIES.
The exhibition runs from 9 - 30 May
Please click here to download e-catalogue

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