Ewald namatjira biography channel 7

Albert became interested in watercolour painting after seeing an impromptu art exhibition at Hermannsburg in featuring the works of traveling artists Rex Battarbee and John Gardner. The paintings amazed Albert who immediately asked Pastor Albrecht if he too could paint. Albrecht initially dismissed his enquiry but Albert persisted and Albrecht then consulted with Battarbee who offered to give him lessons.

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In Battarbee returned and commissioned Albert as his camel boy to take him on a painting trip. Albert guided Battarbee through some of the most spectacular country in Central Australia, including Palm Valley, The James Range and Gosses Gorge and in return received his long awaited lessons. His first paintings were signed simply Albert.

It was not until he started exhibiting that it was thought necessary for him to have a second name. He chose his fathers traditional name and signed his works, Albert Namatjira. His first major public exhibition was opened in Melbourne on the 5th of December , all 41 works sold within days.

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During the second world war Albert sold his paintings to Australian and American soldiers based in Alice Springs. A shortage of materials forced him to substitute paper for local beanwood which he crafted into smooth wooden plaques. Alberts reputation grew after the war and exhibitions of his work were held across Australia. In his lifetime he met with dignitaries from around the world, including the Queen of England but despite his fame he longed for the peaceful surroundings of his homelands.

His paintings divided critics but today hang in all state galleries including the National gallery of Australia which has a collection of Hermannsburg art on permanent display in its Indigenous art wing. Edwin Pareroultja Edwin was born on the 23rd of October A gifted athlete, he excelled at all sports especially running. This was demonstrated at a Red Cross sports meeting in Alice Springs in , off scratch he won both the yrd and 75yrd barefoot against the best runners from the Army and Allied Works.