Art is highly subjective, and while many artists aspire to share their art with the world, there’s no certainty on how it will be received or appreciated by audiences. This situation is reflected in the experience of Vincent Namatjira, an indigenous artist, with his painting of Australia’s wealthiest individual, mining magnate Gina Rinehart.
Rinehart reportedly requested the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) to remove her portrait from Namatjira’s exhibition titled “Australia in Colour,” which showcases 21 individual works. The exhibition has been on display in the gallery located in Canberra, the Australian capital, since March.
Other subjects featured in Namatjira’s work include the late Queen Elizabeth II, American musician Jimi Hendrix, Australian indigenous rights activist Vincent Lingiari, and former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Australian media reported that Rinehart approached both the director and the chairman of the NGA asking for the removal of the painting. In response to these reports, the NGA provided a statement emphasizing their open welcome for public dialogue regarding their collection and exhibitions. They highlighted a long-standing tradition of dynamic debate over the artistic merits of works within the national collection since acquiring Jackson Pollock’s Blue Pollocks in 1973. The gallery aims to inspire Australians to explore, experience, and learn about art.
Namatjira expressed in a statement that his paintings often depict “rich, powerful, or significant people; individuals who have influenced this country and myself, either directly or indirectly, for better or for worse. I paint the world as I see it.” He hopes that while not everyone may appreciate his artwork, people will take time to reflect on why an Aboriginal artist would choose to depict these figures, pondering on the message behind it. Namatjira aspires for viewers to look beyond the surface and engage with the more serious aspects of his work.
Gina Rinehart stands as the executive chairman of Hancock Prospecting, a privately-owned mining company founded by her father, Lang Hancock. Despite attempts to reach out to Hancock Prospecting for comments, no responses were received. According to Forbes, Rinehart’s estimated net worth is US$30.200 billion, placing her firmly at the top of Forbes’ list of Australia’s 50 richest individuals for 2024, as reported in February.
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) in Australia has voiced its support for Namatjira. They highlighted that while Rinehart is entitled to her opinions on the artwork, she should not pressurize the gallery into removing the painting simply because it does not appeal to her. NAVA’s unwavering support for the National Gallery of Australia was reported, emphasizing concerns that Rinehart’s demands could set a dangerous precedent for censorship and stifling of creative expression.
