The NGV continues its commitment to First Nations art with FUTURE COUNTRY, the second iteration of the Country Road + NGV First Nations Commissions, now on view at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia.
Conceived as a national biennial mentorship and exhibition program, the initiative brings together emerging First Nations artists with leading creative practitioners from across Australia. Each pairing supports the development of ambitious new work, encouraging artists to explore new mediums, scales and ideas within their practice.
Spanning photography, sculpture, textiles, video and installation, the exhibition presents a breadth of contemporary approaches. At its core is the theme of ‘Future Country’, inviting artists to look forward while acknowledging the past through their work.
Central to the program is its mentorship model. Established First Nations artists are invited by the NGV to nominate and guide early-career practitioners, supporting them through the conception, development and realisation of their commissions. This exchange brings together a diverse range of perspectives, shaped by experience, practice and cultural knowledge.
The 2026 cohort reflects a wide range of disciplines and voices from across the country, reinforcing the strength and diversity of contemporary First Nations art. From intricate material works to large-scale installations, the exhibition highlights the evolving nature of creative practice today.
Importantly, each commissioned work will enter the NGV Collection, expanding its representation of contemporary First Nations artists and ensuring these works are preserved within Australia’s cultural record.
Open to the public, the exhibition is on view from 20 March to 13 September 2026 at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia.
LEARN MORE: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/exhibition/future-country-country-road-first-nations-commissions/
