Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art

A Melbourne home for fine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art since 1996

Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art stands at the heart of Melbourne's cultural precinct, located at 90 Bourke Street in the CBD. Since its establishment in 1996, the gallery has built a reputation as a premier dealer in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander fine art, drawing visitors and collectors from across Australia and internationally. The gallery sits respectfully on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung Peoples, whose continuing connection to Country, water and community the gallery acknowledges and honours.

Founded by Alexis and Huntiri Hessen, who have been deeply engaged with Indigenous art and communities since 1988, the gallery reflects a genuine commitment to both cultural authenticity and ethical practice. Alexis holds a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies, specialising in Aboriginal Cultures and Comparative Indigenous Studies, whilst Huntiri's direct relationships with Indigenous communities inform the gallery's curatorial approach. This lived knowledge, combined with membership in the City of Melbourne's Indigenous Code of Conduct, ensures that every artwork and artist partnership upholds the highest standards of authenticity and provenance.

Traditional and contemporary works from Australia's most respected art centres

The gallery's collection spans traditional and contemporary Aboriginal paintings, ochres, sculptures, ceramics and works on paper sourced directly from Australia's most prominent Aboriginal-owned art centres. These partnerships extend across the continent—from the Central and Western Desert regions to the Kimberley, Arnhemland, Melville and Tiwi Islands, Victoria, and New South Wales. Represented institutions include Ampilatwatja Artists, Buku–Larrnggay Mulka, Injalak Arts, Mangkaja Arts, Maningrida Arts and Warmun Arts, among many others, each bringing distinct artistic traditions and contemporary voices.

Every work acquired by Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art comes with a certificate of authenticity detailing the provenance and artist background, supported by photographic and video documentation where available. The gallery also represents leading independent Indigenous artists and carefully selected works from other International First Nations peoples, including Indigenous American artists. This curatorial approach ensures visitors encounter not only culturally significant pieces but works grounded in genuine relationships between the gallery, the artists, and their communities.

Diverse pricing and accessibility for all collectors

Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art is committed to making fine Indigenous art accessible to a broad audience. The gallery stocks works across multiple price points, from pieces under one hundred dollars through to significant gallery-scale paintings. This tiered collection means whether you're a first-time buyer exploring Aboriginal art or an established collector seeking a major acquisition, the gallery can accommodate your interests and budget. Featured artists such as Annie Petyarre, Janet Kngwarreye, Gloria Petyarre and Melisha Possum represent the calibre of talent represented, with works spanning landscape, dreaming narratives, and abstract contemporary styles.

For those purchasing works over a certain value, the gallery offers complimentary worldwide delivery, removing geographical barriers to acquisition. The curatorial selection changes regularly as new works arrive from partner art centres, ensuring repeat visits always bring fresh discoveries. Whether browsing in-person or engaging online, collectors benefit from the gallery's rigorous sourcing standards and the directors' ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous communities through awareness-raising, fundraising and charity initiatives.

Visit and opening hours in Melbourne's CBD

Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art welcomes visitors Sunday to Friday, 10am to 6pm, and is closed on Saturdays. The gallery's Bourke Street location places it within easy walking distance of Melbourne's cultural institutions, public transport and hospitality. The accessible storefront invites both casual browsers and serious collectors to step inside and experience the works directly—a vital part of appreciating the depth of colour, scale and texture that Indigenous art demands.

For those unable to visit in person, the gallery's online presence allows remote viewing and purchase, with free worldwide delivery available on artworks over a certain threshold. Visitors can also access recent interviews with gallery curator Alexis Hessen to deepen their understanding of the collection and the stories behind featured works. Whether you're new to Aboriginal art or a seasoned enthusiast, Original & Authentic Aboriginal Art on Bourke Street remains one of Melbourne's essential destinations for authentic, ethically sourced Indigenous fine art.