Must-see First Nations exhibitions in Canberra
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There’s a profound beauty that lives within Indigenous art – a layered and rich history that’s begging to be explored.
But within these visually captivating spaces lives a discomfort, signalling a need for continuous healing, conversations, and platforms for Indigenous artists to share their truths.
Through these exhibitions, visitors can begin to reflect – and more importantly – listen to First Nations stories.
These exhibitions in Canberra can be a powerful starting point.
Our Story: Aboriginal–Chinese People in Australia (National Museum of Australia)
Shedding light on the little-known history of Aboriginal and Chinese relations in colonial Australia, this new exhibition explores themes of identity, survival, resilience and cultural connection, tracing these enduring legacies from the gold rush era to today.
Drawing historical records and oral histories, Our Story: Aboriginal–Chinese People in Australia was curated by artist and researcher Zhou Xiaoping and explores the deep-rooted connections between two of the world’s oldest cultures.
Open daily until 27 January 2026 | Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | nma.gov.au
Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia (National Gallery of Australia)
Including over 260 works from more than 200 artists, Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia is a powerful survey of historical and contemporary works of art by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia.
Underlining the ever-present existence of our First Peoples, it’s a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art – but one that doesn’t shy away from Australia’s complex histories. Challenging stereotypes about First Nations people and what defines their art, go explore its seven overarching and interlinked themes: Ancestors + Creators; Country + Constellations; Community + Family; Culture + Ceremony; Trade + Influence; Resistance + Colonisation; and Innovation + Identity.
Open daily until Sunday 24 August | Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa (National Gallery of Australia)
Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa is a powerful installation created by Aṉangu artists from the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands – and it’s the largest and most significant installation of the culturally important and visually spectacular Kulata Tjuta (Many Spears) Project.
Rooted in age-old traditions, knowledge and skills that are designed around keeping Country and culture strong and showing as part of Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia, this breathtaking work features over 2,500 hand-carved spears and the voices of Elders and young artists. Visually stunning, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Open daily until 29 March 2026 | Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Local Aboriginal art and artefacts (BURRUNJU Aboriginal Art Gallery)
Located next to Lake Burley Griffin, Burrunju Art Centre is an Aboriginal-owned and run not-for-profit charity that showcases local Aboriginal art and artefacts.
Also acting as a grassroots, collaborative space where artists and community members can gather to create or complete paintings and artefacts, here you’ll find works from Ngiyampaa woman Sarah Richards, Wiradjuri man Darren Cooper and more. And with all proceeds from artwork and artefacts sold in the gallery going directly to local artists, it’s a must-visit.
Open Tuesday to Friday | 245 Lady Denman Drive, Canberra | burrunju.org.au
Feature image: Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa. Via Facebook.
