Rio Tinto will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Colours of our Country exhibition, with Pilbara Aboriginal art to be showcased and available internationally for the first time.
Celebrating and promoting the work of Aboriginal artists from across the Pilbara region, this year the exhibition will visit London in July, Busselton, WA in August, and Perth in September.
Rio Tinto iron ore chief executive Simon Trott said the company is looking forward to showcasing in its global head office in London for the first time, as well as Busselton, where many of its fly-in, fly-out workforce live.
“The exhibition continues to be an important avenue to show the unique creations of Pilbara Aboriginal artists,” he said.
“By taking the 20th anniversary art to new audiences, we can help build a deeper appreciation for Pilbara art and the rich culture of the region.”
Each location will host an artist in residence, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Pilbara artists’ culture and connection to country.
The 2024 Colours of our Country signature artist, Yindjibarndi woman Justina Willis, said it was nice to be recognised for her paintings as she enjoys sharing her country with others.
“The atmosphere of the exhibition was great, and it was nice to get out and go to the city to meet all the people who welcomed me kindly,” she said.
Since the first exhibition in 2006, more than 3080 artworks have been sold, with more than $3.4 million going directly to Pilbara artists, art centres and their communities.
The exhibitions are open to the public in London from July 14 to 18, Busselton from August 25 to 29, and Perth from September 5 to 26.
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