Aboriginal Inspired Painting Techniques

Have fun experimenting with these Aboriginal painting techniques! Using sticks, leaves, pods, shells, nuts, flowers and even your hands, create a masterpiece that is ready to hang! Are you ready to get a bit messy?!

The artwork and explanation for these techniques have been created by Michelle Napanangka Earl, Artist & Basket Weaver. As a proud Darkinjung woman with Wonnarua ties, Michelle has a personal connection to the Hunter Valley and respectfully teaches and celebrates the Traditional Aboriginal Culture of the Communities that reside across the valley.

CleverPatch™ recommends educators, teachers and event organisers work in consultation with their local Aboriginal Communities (start locally and extend out geographically) when planning activities & learning experiences. Any creative or art making activity that mirrors or replicates Aboriginal cultural experiences should always be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate owners of that cultural property.

Some materials and products may contain terms that reflect authors' views, both current or past. These views may not be considered appropriate today and are provided in a historical context. These views are not necessarily the views of CleverPatch.

Step 1Decide whether you would like to leave your canvas background white or add some colour. If you would like some colour, paint a light and natural colour background using a paintbrush (or your hands if you’re brave enough!). You may wish to use a combination of white and colour. You can also create a hand relief design in your artwork. Place a cardboard hand shape (or your hand) onto the canvas and paint around the shape. Remove the hand shape after painting. Allow to dry.
Step 2Begin adding texture to your background by applying paint onto various natural products and then stamping them onto your artwork. Allow to dry.
Step 3Accentuate any relief designs by dotting around the edge using a darker colour of paint and a stick or dot painting tools. Add any further dots onto your artwork if you wish. Allow to dry.
Step 4You may also like to add some Aboriginal symbols and footprints. To create a footprint, use the side of your palm for the foot and your thumb for the toes! You can use a paint pen to add in any smaller details or for outlining.
Step 5Complete your artwork by rubbing some brown paint around the edges and corners of the canvas board with your fingers. Allow your artwork to dry completely.
Step 6Your Artwork is now ready to display!

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Materials used in this activity

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INDIGENOUS DESIGNS