Wenten Rubuntja facts for kids

Black Snake Dreaming. Wenten Rubuntja. Central Australia. 1978

Wenten Rubuntja (born around 1923, died 2005) was an important Australian artist, a champion for Aboriginal rights, and a historian. He was born near Alice Springs in Central Australia.

Wenten was a strong leader for his community. In 1975, he was chosen as the deputy chair of the Central Land Council. This group helps Aboriginal communities in Central Australia manage their land.

Protecting Land and Culture

Wenten Rubuntja served as the chairman of the Central Land Council for many years. He used his deep knowledge and good humor to help his people. He was very important in protecting many sacred sites around Alice Springs. These are special places for Aboriginal people.

Thanks to his efforts, a big decision was made in 2000. The Federal Court of Australia recognized that the Arrernte people had native title over large areas of Alice Springs. This meant they officially owned their traditional land. It was the first time Aboriginal people were given title over land in a town.

Wenten believed that both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal laws could work together. He thought everyone needed to understand each other's ways. He also worked on the Council of Aboriginal Reconciliation. This council aimed to bring Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians closer. In 1995, he was given the Order of Australia award for his service.

His Art

Mr. Rubuntja was also a famous artist. He painted in two main styles. One was the traditional "dot" style, which uses many small dots to create images. The other was a landscape style, like Western paintings. He learned this style by watching his uncle, the famous artist Albert Namatjira.

You can see his paintings in important art galleries. These include the National Gallery of Australia and the Northern Territory Gallery. His art helps share the stories and beauty of his culture.

Wenten Rubuntja was recognized for his great work. He received the Member of the Order of Australia award in 1995. This award was for his service to Aboriginal people, especially in Central Australia.

Images for kids

• 

  Black Snake Dreaming. Wenten Rubuntja. Central Australia. 1978