arts

Kimberley Aboriginal artists take their stories to Washington DC

Joseph Guenzler Published October 29, 2025 at 9.25am (AWST)

Ten Kimberley Aboriginal artists see their artwork displayed in Washington, DC. Image: Waringarri Aboriginal Arts.

A major exhibition of Aboriginal artwork from Western Australia's Kimberley region has opened at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, shining an international spotlight on the strength and diversity of Kimberley artists.

'All That Country Holds' is an exhibition bringing together six Kimberley art centres under Kimberley Aboriginal Art and Culture (KAAC).

It presents new works by ten artists that share stories deeply rooted in Country, culture, and community life.

The exhibition features works by Angelina Karadada Boona (Wunambal Gaambera/Worrora), Ben Ward (Miriwoong), Evelyn Malgil (Gija), Jan Griffiths (Miriwoong/Ngarinyman), John Prince Siddon (Walmajarri), Leah Umbagai (Woddordda), Mary-Lou Divilli (Nyikina and Ngarinyin), Mervyn Street (Gooniyandi), Pauline Sunfly (Wirrimanu), and Miriam Baadjo (Warlayirti) with each representing distinct voices and cultural traditions from across the region.

*Michael Jalaru Torres, Leah Rinjeewala Umbagai and Zali Morgan at the opening reception of All That Country Holds: Art From The Kimberley, Embassy of Australia, Washington DC (Image: Supplied)*

Supported by $425,538 in funding from the Cook Government, the showcase includes $299,750 from the Regional Arts and Cultural Investment Program and $125,788 through Arts Projects for Organisations.

The initiative reflects the government's commitment to promoting Aboriginal arts on a global stage.

The exhibition is accompanied by large-scale projections of Country and a public program of artist talks, creating opportunities for audiences to hear directly from the artists about their connection to land, heritage, and creative practice.

Following its presentation in Washington DC, 'All That Country Holds' will return to Western Australia for exhibition at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts in 2026, giving local audiences the chance to experience the work that has represented the Kimberley internationally.

*'Burnaddee' by Leah Umbagai. (Image: Waringarri Aboriginal Arts)*

Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said the exhibition reflects the growing global appreciation for Aboriginal art and the importance of supporting artists to share their stories abroad.

"All That Country Holds is a powerful celebration of the Kimberley's artists and the stories they carry from Country to the world," Ms McGurk said.

"This exhibition captures the incredible creative energy of the Kimberley and showcases the strength, beauty, and depth of Western Australia's Aboriginal art to international audiences.

"We are committed to supporting projects like this that elevate Aboriginal voices, build international recognition, and strengthen cultural exchange."

'All That Country Holds' runs from 22 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC.