CONTEMPORARY indigenous art is developing from the dot-painting and cross-hatching techniques of its forebears.
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Local artist Josh Muir, who was yesterday crowned People’s Choice Award winner for the Victorian Indigenous Arts Award 2014, entered a striking digital print transferred onto aluminium for this year’s competition.
Mr Muir was delighted with the award and said he used the new technique to show the diversity of young indigenous art.
Inspired by Greek mythology and Mr Muir’s indigenous heritage, the Heavens Gates print depicts a Zeus-like figure, surrounded by roses and harpists, guarding the gates to heaven.
Mr Muir said there were parallels between Greek mythology and indigenous culture. “I had the background with water because that’s where I feel at peace,” said Mr Muir, who comes from the Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara people.
Peter Freund, of the Art Gallery of Ballarat, said Mr Muir won 16 per cent of the popular vote, with almost 600 Victorians voting on close to 30 pieces.
Mr Muir, who won $2500 as part of the award, thanked his family, staff at Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience Ballarat and Ballarat West MP Sharon Knight for their support throughout his project.
