What is ochre and why is it such an important medium in Aboriginal art?

Ochre is an invaluable material for Aboriginal artists in creating lively and colorful paintings.

This hard clay is widely found in Western Australia’s Kimberley region and the Northern Territory’s Alice Springs and comes in various shades such as red, pink, yellow, white, and even blue.

The traditional method of making paint from ochre involves grinding it into a powder and mixing it with saliva, egg yolk, water, or animal fat.

To achieve different colors and tones, natural pigments found in plants or animal blood would be added.

Ochre has been used by Aboriginal peoples across Australia for centuries and is one of the earliest forms of paint ever discovered.

Even today, ochre remains a vital medium in Aboriginal art. Whether used alone or combined with other natural materials such as charcoal and resin, it continues to play a significant role in creating beautiful rock paintings that depict cultural symbols and stories.

If you’re interested in learning more about Aboriginal Art, visit aboriginal-art.com.au