Grogan' art accused of 'stealing Indigenous elements'

Lucas Grogan, a non-Indigenous artist who reproduced Indigenous iconography has been labelled as disrespectful by the Aboriginal community, NITV News reports.

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Lucas Grogan, a non-Indigenous artist who reproduced Indigenous iconography has been labelled as disrespectful by the Aboriginal community.

Yhonnie Scarce is a Kokatha and Nukunu artist. She says seeing Indigenous art styles from Mr Grogan, who is based in Melbourne, stirred emotions. "To be honest I felt quite angry, and that sort of anger carries on with you as well."

Those opposed to Mr Grogan's works say his images have appropriated styles and techniques from the Northern Territory.

Mr Grogan and the gallery representing him, Gallerysmith, released a statement which said his painting style comes from a variety of inspirations.

"He once made some work that referenced Aboriginal painting because he realised there were some striking similarities between his mark making and bark painting. But his inspiration comes from a whole range of sources," the statement said.

Ms Scarce says she believes Aboriginal people have a right to their own artwork.

"Aboriginal people have already had a lot taken form them, so I think they own this and they have every right to."

Two Indigenous artists walked out of Grogan's exhibition in protest.

She says she would walk out of any gallery that showcased his works. "I don't want to be associated with anyone who is doing that."

Mr Grogan last month told The Australian newspaper he's pursuing a new direction in his art that draws less on Aboriginal styles.


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Source: NITV News

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