Australian First Nations Art Takes Centre Stage in Washington D.C.

Major exhibition showcases over 30 works by 20 leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists in landmark U.S. presentation.

Words: Robert Buratti

Michael Reid Sydney + Berlin has launched The Stars Before Us All, a significant exhibition of Australian First Nations art now showing in Washington, D.C., alongside a companion presentation at the gallery’s Chippendale flagship in Sydney.

Running until November 10, 2025, in the U.S. capital’s Golden Triangle district, The Stars Before Us All brings together over 30 new and historical works spanning diverse disciplines—paintings, photography, sculpture, weaving, and bark works—by artists from across the Australian continent, including the Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, Far North Queensland, Torres Strait, the Central Desert, and the Kimberley.

Featured artists include Emily Kam Kngwarray, Regina Pilawuk Wilson, Owen Yalandja, Djirrirra Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa, Nici Cumpston OAM, Dr Christian Thompson AO, and Betty Chimney. The exhibition marks the United States debut of several artists, including 2025 Telstra Art Award winner Gaypalani Wanambi.

The Stars Before Us All continues at Michael Reid Washington D.C. until November 10, 2025, and at Michael Reid Sydney, Chippendale, until November 2, 2025.

This article was posted 28 October 2025.

Image: Installation View of The Stars Before Us All: Australian First Nations Art. Artworks, from left, by Rover Thomas, Owen Yalandja, Djirrirra Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa, Timo Hogan, Maureen Ali, Dr Christian Thompson AO, Nici Cumpston OAM, Lex Namponan, Garry Namponen, Regina Pilawuk Wilson, Emily Kam Kngwarray and Owen Yalandja. Photograph by Wendy Vasquez.

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