Art + Soul

Art + Soul is an engrossing and immersive Australian documentary television series that debuted on ABC Television in 2010. The show presents a deep exploration of the world of Aboriginal Art, poking its lens deep into the cultural, historical and spiritual aspects of the indigenous Australian population. Art + Soul delivers a distinguished mix of visual arts disciplines, traditional conversations and insights into the contemporary lives of indigenous people, articulating a rich story of resilience, survival, identity and spiritual connection.

Helmed by the celebrated and esteemed writer and art critic of First Nations descent, Hetti Perkins, the show embarks on a profound journey, winding through Aboriginal culture, tradition and history, while examining the intricate relationship between art, land, and the First Nations people. Perkins’ deeply personal connection to the subject matter and her thoughtful approach give the series a compelling authenticity. Perkins, with her insightful and engaging narrations, uncovers the depth and breadth of Indigenous culture and art, moving fluidly between the past and the present, reality and myth, tradition and innovation.

Shot across the varied terrains of Australia, Art + Soul is divided into three parts – 'Home and Away', 'Dreams and Nightmares' and 'Bitter and Sweet’. Each part meticulously explores themes such as art's connection to the land; its role in depicting the hopes, dreams, and nightmares of the Indigenous population; the dark history of colonial suppression; and the celebration of culture and heritage through artistic expressions. It also critically examines how these themes resonate in contemporary Aboriginal art - creating powerful narratives that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

Throughout the series, Perkins meets with renowned Indigenous artists, including, but not limited to, artists from urban centres, remote desert art centres, Kimberley art studios, and sultry Top End artistic retreats. The series tastefully presents their lively art forms, revealing stories of survival, resistance, oppression, strength, and celebration that are integral to their artistic expressions. Viewers get to see first-hand the vast range of artistic methodologies utilized – from traditional bark and rock painting to diverse contemporary applications of sculpture, graphics, photography, textiles, and new media.

Notably, Art + Soul showcases more than just visual arts. It skillfully incorporates elements of music, dance, theatre, and storytelling, reflecting the holistic essence of Aboriginal artistic culture. Indigenous music and dance performances throughout the series add a dynamic, rhythmic layer to the viewing experience. These diverse art forms work in unison to create a multidimensional portrait of Aboriginal culture and a holistic sensory experience that is entirely unique to Art + Soul.

Each episode of Art + Soul is imbued with an intellectual richness and visual splendour, making it both a deeply educational and visually engaging series. The stunning cinematography captures the breathtaking landscapes and intense colours of Australia, while the evocative score, composed largely of indigenous music, adds an emotional depth to Perkins’ narrative, creating an artistically enriching and emotionally moving experience.

Art + Soul is a significant body of work that serves as a testament to the endurance and vibrancy of Indigenous cultures. It provides an accessible platform for non-Indigenous audiences to gain valuable insights and understanding of the nuances of Indigenous art and culture. At the same time, it stands as a proud celebration of Indigenous identity and creativity.

The series is prodigiously essential for anyone seeking to understand Aboriginal Art in its purest form. Art + Soul not only showcases art as a stunning visual medium but also spotlights it as a critical tool in narrating the past, reflecting on the present, and envisioning the future of Indigenous societies. With its blend of riveting storytelling, philosophical insights, and high-calibre visual content, Art + Soul is bound to ignite an appreciation for Indigenous culture and a deeper understanding of the complexities of Australia’s colonial history.

In conclusion, Art + Soul is a beautifully realised work of television that is as much a tribute to Australia's Indigenous traditions as it is a testament to the transformative power of art. It's a show that inspires, educates and celebrates, and it's an absolute must-watch for art enthusiasts, historians, students, and anyone who believes in the transcendental power of creativity.