Located about 130 kilometres west of Alice Springs, Ntaria is home to a vibrant, independent artistic community. The Arrernte people of this area — the former Hermannsburg Mission — are famous for both their watercolours and their ceramics, inspired by the rich colours of their desert homeland. 

In this feature, learn more about the history and artists of the Hermannsburg School: from painter Albert Namatjira’s indomitable legacy to the innovations of the all-women Hermannsburg Potters group. Experience works in the Collection captured in 3D, or explore the complex history of the Hermannsburg Mission through materials from the 1930s and 40s.

Collection Online special features like one this are made possible through the support of donors to the Unlock the Collection campaign. 

Cultural sensitivity warning
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members are respectfully advised that this resource refers to and depicts people who have passed away, and includes historically and culturally sensitive words, terms and descriptions. 

Feature image: Otto Pareroultja / Arrernte people / Australia NT 1914–1973 / Colours of Central Australia (detail) c.1957–58 / Watercolour on paper / Purchased 2002. Queensland Art Gallery Foundation Grant / © Otto Pareroultja Estate