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Australian Aboriginal Art is one of the oldest recognized art forms of the world. With the settlement of the Europeans, arts and crafts in Australia started taking on newer dimensions. The early art of Australia was confined to portrayals of the natural beauty and heritage of this country. The flora and fauna were favorite themes for the artists who were primarily soldiers and navy officers who colonized the land. Sydney Parkinson, Charles-Alexandre Lesueur and John Lewin were among the early artists from Australia. In the early 19 th century artists of Australia skillfully presented the portraits and life of the Aborigines. The breathtaking beauty and serenity of the land is effectively captured by Conrad Martens' and John Glover's works. The later part of the 19h century saw many exhibitions and art galleries mushrooming in Australia. Eugene von Guerard, William Strutt, and Louis Buvelot were among the many artists whose works were coveted art pieced of this era. The art movement of the 1880s, popularly known as the Heidelberg School is regarded to provide Australian art its basic character. This movement is believed to have drawn inspiration from the Impressionist movement in Europe. Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, Frederick McCubbin, and Charles Conder formed the pioneers of the Heidelberg school and were known for their use of vivid hues and sharp paintings. The 20th century saw a phenomenal growth of the art and craft of Australia. Water and oil colors, miniature art and craft works such as vase and urn paintings ruled the roost. From the controversial paintings of Norman Linsay to the internationally lauded works of Grace Cossington Smith the painters and artists of Australia came into limelight. Modernist art soon gathered popularity in Australia. Many prizes, awards and galleries were set up to promote art and artists of the land. The Archibald Prize was instituted in 1921. William Dobell, Maz Dupain etc. created a name for themselves by depicting the human physique well in their portraits. Soon came up a genre of artists who creatively experimented with many styles and techniques. Some blended Aboriginal art and modern techniques while others derived inspiration from surrealism. Arthur Boyde, Albert Tucker, Brett Whiteley and Albert Namatjira have left everlasting impressions in the world of Australian Art. The Government has done much to promote art and craft in the country. Video and still photography has been widely accepted. Patricia Piccinini, Tracey Moffat, Bill Henson, Bill Leak, Nicholas Harding and Euan MacLeod are the new names in Australian arts and crafts world. These artists have carved a niche out for themselves and their motherland in the international art and craft domain.
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