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Albert Namatjira

Vincent Namatjira

$27.99

Hardback

In stock
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English
Magabala Books
01 August 2021

ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- Vincent tells the story of his famous great-grandfather Albert, proud Aranda man and influential artist. It is simply and powerfully narrated, and accompanied by Vincent's striking, bold and naïve illustrations. Beginning with Albert's early promise as a craftsman, his introduction to landscape painting through Rex Battarbee, it progresses through his success and fame and his acceptance by white Australia, to the paradox of living in two different worlds, and falling foul of white law as he practises his cultural responsibilities. A profoundly moving tribute to a great artist, and an even greater man, by a very fine and accomplished artist in his own right. Highly recommended, ever child deserves the gift of this book.  Lindy

Age range 6 to 12 Award-winning artist Vincent Namatjira tells the life story of his great-grandfather, Albert Namatjira, one of Australia's most iconic artists.


Vincent's witty and moving paintings are accompanied by evocative text, which records the pivotal moments in Albert's life. In telling his great-grandfather's story, Vincent builds a compelling picture of the times and conditions in which Albert lived and worked, capturing his triumphs and tragedy against a backdrop of social change and historical injustices.

This poignant children's book provides an important tool for discussion about Australia's art history, and a launching pad for exploration of the key moments in Australia's Aboriginal Rights movement.

Albert Namatjira is a unique children's picture book of both artistic beauty and historical importance, and will appeal to children, art collectors and those looking for a special gift.

The artwork in this book is part of a body of work called 'Albert's Story' that was acquired by QAGOMA - Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art.

'In his picture book biography Albert Namatjira, Vincent Namatjira paints a stoic and quietly devastating portrait of his great-grandfather Albert, one of the most iconic figures in Australian painting...

There is a wonderful tension in Vincent Namatjira's paintings; his neutral and non-judgemental eye for his subjects lends itself beautifully to Albert's story, bold marks constructing understated tableaus, belying a deep well of emotion. As a picture book biography, it is startlingly unique to look at and, notably, it makes no attempt to emulate any part of Albert Namatjira's aesthetic in the telling. On opposing pages, the text is sparse, its simplicity rendering the arc of Albert's life with unsentimental clarity. This is a wonderful example of the picture book form's unique gift for dramatic understatement, of its ability to cut to the lean truth of a matter. Albert Namatjira is simply a triumph of painting, of biography, of history, and of tribute. Magnificent.' - Phil Lesnie, Books+Publishing



See more for FIRST NATIONS

By:  
Imprint:   Magabala Books
Country of Publication:   Australia
Dimensions:   Height: 292mm,  Width: 220mm, 
ISBN:   9781925936216
ISBN 10:   192593621X
Pages:   32
Publication Date:  
Audience:   Children/juvenile ,  English as a second language
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active

Reviews for Albert Namatjira

ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- Vincent tells the story of his famous great-grandfather Albert, proud Aranda man and influential artist. It is simply and powerfully narrated, and accompanied by Vincent's striking, bold and naïve illustrations. Beginning with Albert's early promise as a craftsman, his introduction to landscape painting through Rex Battarbee, it progresses through his success and fame and his acceptance by white Australia, to the paradox of living in two different worlds, and falling foul of white law as he practises his cultural responsibilities. A profoundly moving tribute to a great artist, and an even greater man, by a very fine and accomplished artist in his own right. Highly recommended, ever child deserves the gift of this book.  Lindy


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