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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

Art Buying Trip to Utopia

Art Buying Trip to Utopia

Come with us as to Utopia and meet some of our artists as Tim Jennings collects more aboriginal art. Last Friday (July 17th, 2020) I travelled to Utopia for the first time since February the 12th. I took with me my oldest daughter Terri and her youngest daughter Savannah, who is 11! Terri’s…
Art Buying Trip to Utopia
Aboriginal Art Symbols

Aboriginal Art Symbols

Aboriginal Art Symbols - Understanding Aboriginal Art  The use of iconography in Aboriginal art is as much a part of communicating the story today as it was 50,000 years ago. Traditionally, Australian Aboriginal people had no written language of their own so in conjunction with song…
Aboriginal Art Symbols
Dreamtime Role in Aboriginal Art

Dreamtime Role in Aboriginal Art

The Role of Dreamtime in Aboriginal ArtDreamtime is the term used to describe a set of Aboriginal spiritual beliefs and existence, stemming back to the beginning of time. These are handed down by generations through stories, songs, ceremony and art. Dreamtime shape understandings of family, law,…
Dreamtime Role in Aboriginal Art
The Story Behind Medicine Bush Leaves Paintings

The Story Behind Medicine Bush Leaves Paintings

The Story Behind Medicine Bush Leaves The medicine bush leaves style of painting is perhaps one of the most captivating kinds of art on the planet. The thousands of ‘leaves’ are painstakingly hand-painted one by one, layered on top of one another with thick brush strokes in gorgeous swir…
The Story Behind Medicine Bush Leaves Paintings
The Adaption of Dot Art

The Adaption of Dot Art

The Adaption of Dot Art PaintingsIt has been suggested that the first Aboriginal dot art emerged into western society in the 1970’s. The chances of people outside of Aboriginal communities seeing dot painting then was considered extremely rare. Yet within such a short period of time, this style,…
The Adaption of Dot Art