Aboriginal cultures collection

0 Collections | Updated 1 month ago

The representation of Western Australian Aboriginal cultures has been a significant focus of the Museum since its inception in 1892. The early collections reflect hunting and gathering lifestyles, and personal adornment of the peoples of the South West, Pilbara, Desert and Kimberley regions.

The collection traces the impact and influence of Europeans on the Aboriginal peoples of Western Australia and includes objects representing the innovative use of introduced materials and the continuity of Aboriginal traditional knowledge and skills.

Working with the Western Australian Museum's Aboriginal Advisory Committee and communities around Western Australia, the Anthropology and Archaeology department currently focuses on collecting material that reflect issues of identity, connection to country, sustainable community and cultural maintenance.

The collection grows through donation, purchase, and fieldwork with Aboriginal communities.