The University of Melbourne advances truth-telling with the launch of 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art publication

Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO and Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM signing the book. Image credit: James Henry
Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO and Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM signing the book. Image credit: James Henry

The University of Melbourne has marked a significant milestone in its truth-telling journey with the launch of 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art publication.

Edited by Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO and Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM, this landmark publication explores the profound history of Indigenous Australian art, illuminating 65,000 years of continuous culture, Indigenous knowledge and powerful artistic expression.

Featuring contributions from 25 leading thinkers across various disciplines, the publication offers insights into Indigenous Knowledge and creative practices while engaging in essential truth-telling about the enduring impact of Australian colonialism on Indigenous art and history.

The launch of this publication will be released in association with a major exhibition at the University of Melbourne’s revitalised Potter Museum of Art, which will reopen its doors to the public during Reconciliation Week in May 2025.

The inaugural exhibition, also titled 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art, will showcase more than 400 artworks, including seven major new commissions by prominent contemporary First Nations artists.

The release of this publication comes at an important time for the University of Melbourne, following the initiation of Murmuk Djerring, the University’s Indigenous Strategy 2023-2027, and this year’s earlier launch of the University’s truth-telling book, Dhoombak Goobgoowana: A History of Indigenous Australia and the University of Melbourne.

As part of its priorities, the University of Melbourne has pledged to engage in full and honest truth-telling about its history, as well as its role in educating society through arts and culture.

This publication is another example of how the University is actively contributing to advancing reconciliation and reciprocal learning with Indigenous peoples and communities by encouraging dialogue about the importance of Indigenous culture and art, as outlined in Advancing Melbourne’s Place pillar.