The Potter Museum of Art at the University of Melbourne has reopened with 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art – a landmark exhibition launching during Reconciliation Week that celebrates the enduring brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Curated by Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO, Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM, and Associate Curator Shanysa McConville, the exhibition traces Indigenous artistic traditions from ancient creation to contemporary masterpieces, challenging the delayed recognition of First Nations art within Australia’s cultural narrative.
“The ironic title refers to the belated acceptance of Indigenous art into the fine art canon,” said Professor Langton. “This exhibition celebrates its global recognition as the greatest revolution in Australian art.”
Featuring more than 400 works—including rare pieces from the University’s collections and 193 loans from national lenders—the show spans bark paintings, sculptures, and new commissions by artists like Emily Kam Kngwarray, Albert Namatjira, and Destiny Deacon. Six contemporary Indigenous artists, including Betty Muffler and Vicki West, have created works specifically for the exhibition.
Housed in a space redeveloped by Wood Marsh Architects, the Potter now features a striking new entrance and enhanced learning facilities
65,000 Years runs until late 2025, inviting visitors to engage with the world’s oldest continuous art tradition—finally claiming its rightful place in history. Entry is free. Bookings and details here.
