Exceptional Aboriginal Artist White Gums by Aussie Flash Fiction contest entry

His rheumy eyes scanned the red plains. Sitting beneath a white gum tree, a tear rolled down his onyx cheek. He opened his paintbox and set his canvas ready to paint the purple mountains. A simple tribal man made famous for his unique style of painting. He was nervous as the Queen was visiting Australia. He was told she was coming to see his artwork. Albert was refused permission by the Government to have his paintings in the National Art Gallery because he was not deemed an Australian; just a tribal black. The Queen's Land Rover arrived at Albert's camp. He had never seen a white woman. The Queen walked towards the tribe. Albert's paintings were propped against a massive red gum tree. Uncomfortable in white man's clothes, he just wanted to return to nature. She walked the line giving them medals, making them all Australians. Recognized Author Notes Contest Entry for 150 words Flash Fiction. Albert Namatjira was our most celebrated indigenous artist. I have created this story around what may have happened. I do know Queen Elizabeth 11 made him an Australian. I think this was an insult to one of the 1st Australians. His paintings still draw crowds.

© Copyright 2025. Aussie All rights reserved. Aussie has granted FanStory.com, its affiliates and its syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.