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Tim's Blog

Tim's Blog

Explore stories, insights and reflections from Mbantua Gallery owner Tim Jennings, sharing his experiences, knowledge and passion for Aboriginal art, artists and the communities behind the artworks.

Stories from Mbantua Gallery

With decades of experience working alongside Aboriginal artists and communities, Tim shares his personal perspective on the artworks, artists and stories that have shaped Mbantua Gallery. Through his blog, discover insights into Aboriginal art, the Utopia region, gallery exhibitions, significant artworks and the remarkable journeys behind some of Australia's most celebrated artists.

Sharing Knowledge and Stories

Every artwork has a story and Tim's Blog provides an opportunity to explore the history, culture and connections behind the art we share with collectors around the world. Whether you are an art collector, visitor or simply interested in learning more about Aboriginal art, we invite you to explore Tim's stories and discover more about the people, places and artworks that make Mbantua Gallery unique.

Aboriginal Art Blog

Tim's Bush Trip - September 2025

Tim's Bush Trip - September 2025

For various reasons I haven't visited the Utopia Region for quite a few months and I knew that I was very overdue for a trip. Throughout this time period different artists have been ringing us on very regular basis, enquiring when I might get out there next. Having said that, a lot of the artists an…
Tim's Bush Trip - September 2025
Tim's Bush Trip - November 2024 - with Terri van Haaren

Tim's Bush Trip - November 2024 - with Terri van Haaren

On Tuesday, November 6th, my eldest daughter and our website manager, Terri van Haaren, joined me on a 650km round trip to Utopia. It was a pleasant journey filled with stories dating back to my first visit in 1985. Though I've forgotten many details over the years, the memories remain vivid! The w…
Tim's Bush Trip - November 2024 - with Terri van Haaren
Throwback - Motorbike Paddy

Throwback - Motorbike Paddy

August 15th 2023Motorbike Paddy had an eye operation 2 or 3 weeks ago and is now back home (Camel Camp). He was really keen to have some more canvas today when I saw him today. He came over to the car especially to get some! Denisa spoke language with him and said 'yes he wants to do some…
Throwback - Motorbike Paddy
Selina Teece Pwerle - Roller Shutter Art Project

Selina Teece Pwerle - Roller Shutter Art Project

We couldn’t be prouder of our artist Selina Teece Pwerle! Her art is now on display as part of the Alice Springs Public Art Trail. Selina’s painting, My Country, can be found in Todd Mall (near Gregory Terrace) as part of the Rollershutter Art Trail. What started as a small street art festi…
Selina Teece Pwerle - Roller Shutter Art Project
Lindsay Bird Mpetyane - Vale

Lindsay Bird Mpetyane - Vale

We have all recently lost another wonderful person from the Utopia Region, Lindsay Bird Mpetyane. He was a truly special individual.I was privileged to have first met Lindsay at Angula Outstation way back in 1985. At the time, I had no idea that this man would become a close lifetime friend. Despite…
Lindsay Bird Mpetyane - Vale