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Aboriginal x-ray art is a traditional style used by the people of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory of Australia to depict local animals and stories. Many of the animals are painted showing some anatomical features, that is, painted in x-ray.


X-ray art shows the artist's relationship with, and knowledge of, his country and its inhabitants.

 

The delicate presentation of bone structures and internal organs gives the picture a three-dimensional effect. X-ray art has been painted by Aboriginal people for countless generations.

Kolobar, Plains Kangaroo, c. 1969

 

Yuwun Yuwun Marruwarr (c1928-79) Australia (Aboriginal)

Natural earth pigments on bark

48 x 72 cm

Two turtles and two echidnas 

Gunwinggu TribeKroken Island, West Arnhem Land

26.25" x 13.75"

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