Sunday, 11 September 2011

Rover Thomas and Emily kame Kngarreye

Rover Thomas, (Joolama), Gula Gula (Manking), 1989, Earth pigments and natural binders on Canvas, 90.2 x 180.5 cm.
Emily Kame Kngarreye (Anmatryerre People), Kame Colour 11, 1995, Synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 243 .5 x 152.5 cm.

I have been thinking about the exhibition 'Spirit in the Land' and in particular Rover Thoma's paintings compared to Emily Kngwarrey's.. From a gender perspective the two artists exhibit a strong Yin/ Yang polarity, Rover Thoma's strong, bold, simple forms created from natural earth ochres and binders is overtly masculine in tone which speaks with a gravitas that reflects his elder status, history and position within his people. Whereas Emily Kamwarreye is unmistakably feminine, full of swirling colour and bush plum exuberance. Emily's Painting speaks of hope and celebration with plenty of food to share with her family and community.

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