LOS ANGELES, CA.- Abell Auction Co. will present a wonderful array of Aboriginal art from the collection of Richard Kelton (1929-2019), whose respect and passion for the Australian Indigenous culture inspired him to curate one of the world’s most important private collections of its kind. Live bidding at the July 28 online sale will start at 9 a.m. PDT.

Featuring over 400 lots, the important sale will offer oil on canvas, oil on linen, natural earth pigments on canvas, bark paintings, spears, boomerangs, painted maps of Australia and other unique items.

“This is a special opportunity for the contemporary art community to continue Richard Kelton’s legacy of preserving the spirit and culture of the Australian Indigenous people,” said Abell Auction Co. Vice President Todd Schireson. “These extraordinary works demonstrate important developments in 20th century art, including the use of non-traditional colors, depictions of sacred imagery and ritual objects, and the recognition of women artists.”

Highlighted Auction Items

Works by Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Albert Namatjira and other well-known artists of the region will highlight the sale. Featured items include Albert Namatjira “A Mountain Range, Australia”; Emily Kame Kngwarreye "Ochre Body Paint"; Narputta Nangala Jugadai "Muruntji Rockhole in Red Tones"; Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri "Love Story Dreaming"; Janet Forrester Ngala: "Sugar Bag Dreaming"; Narputta Nangala Jugada “Muruntji Rockhole in Red Tones"; and Norma Giles "Tatjarr."

Featured Artists

Emily Kame Kngwarreye was a pioneer for female artists in the Aboriginal art movement. At the time, she was one of the few females in a male-dominated art scene. Through her unorthodox techniques, love for her homeland, and Dreamtime stories, she expressed deep emotion and personal experiences through her works. Her career spanned 80 years, but her legacy continues today.

Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, known for his strong charisma and work ethic, believed the Aboriginal people should express their “dreamings” on canvas from traditional means through the soil. His influence positioned him as one of the founders of the Western Desert Art movement, which led to worldwide awareness of Aboriginal art. His work remains sought-after by many collectors.

Albert Namatjira is arguably the most famous European-style Aboriginal artist. His work broke barriers between the European Australians and Aboriginals, and he was the first with his ethnic background to gain popularity. His works focus on beautiful interpretations of the spirituality of the Australian landscape. His art is still praised today and he is celebrated as an influential advocate for Aboriginal rights.