Finding the lost Rover Thomas
Greer Adams Fine Art is excited to announce the discovery of the first ever documented work by major Aboriginal artist Rover Thomas.
The artwork, painted in ochre on board, came from the Estate of Duncan Kentish, a highly-respected collector and art dealer in Aboriginal art. The piece has been authenticated by Rover Thomas expert Dr Suzanne Spunner as the lost Rover Thomas painting that had been on display in the Wungkul community store in Warmun in late 1983.
Dr Spunner said many years ago she had seen a photograph of the work, but had been unable to confirm the painting’s existence as an early Rover Thomas until now.
“Mention of this work, the first Rover Thomas nailed to the wall of the Warmun community store, had been made from time to time, but the painting itself had not been located, and it seemed possible witnesses were confusing similar works, and different years.
“But as soon as I saw this painting I recognised it immediately – this was the first documented Rover Thomas.”
Greer Adams, curator and collection manager for the collection of the late Duncan Kentish, said the work marks the beginning of one of Australia’s most important and iconic artists.
“It is incredibly exciting to see where Rover Thomas’ phenomenal artistry began. Here he is telling a story from his days as a stockman on Texas Downs. The painting shows Barawooban Hill where a big hole forms a natural kangaroo trap. It is depicted as the distinctive bulging teardrop shape that encloses the kangaroo.
“Even here, in his very first known work, we can see the way in which Rover Thomas could distil events into deceptively simple, expressive and evocative images.”
“To view this work, is to see the beginning of a legend and incredible artistic legacy.”
See also a link to the ARTSHUB article here.
Kangaroo (at Barawooban), 1983
natural earth pigments on composition board
94 x 122cm (irregular)
© Rover Thomas/Copyright Agency 2022