Meaning of Aboriginal Art Symbols

Kelly Taylor
2026-03-06T14:03:19+10:30

Discover the meaning of Aboriginal art symbols and how Indigenous Australian artists use shapes, lines and meeting circles to tell stories of Country, culture and family.
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What Do Aboriginal Art Symbols Mean?

Aboriginal art symbols are an important part of Indigenous Australian storytelling. Through simple shapes, flowing lines and meeting circles, Aboriginal artists share stories about Country, family, journeys and cultural knowledge passed down through generations.

These symbols are not simply decorative. They represent places, events and traditions connected to land and community. Many contemporary Aboriginal artists continue to use these symbols to express cultural identity and share stories through visual art.

Common Symbols in Aboriginal Art

Some of the most recognised symbols in Aboriginal art include meeting circles, travel lines and waterholes. A meeting circle often represents a gathering place where people share stories, knowledge and culture. Lines between circles may represent journeys across Country.

Waterholes are another common symbol, reflecting important places where communities gather and connect with the land. These symbols together form visual stories that represent life on Country.

Storytelling Through Indigenous Australian Art

Aboriginal art has always been a powerful form of storytelling. Artists use colour, pattern and symbolism to communicate experiences, history and spiritual connections to the land.

Many contemporary Aboriginal artworks continue this tradition, sharing stories of family, travel across Country and cultural identity.

Common Aboriginal Art Symbols Explained

Many Aboriginal artworks include symbols such as meeting circles, travel lines and waterholes. These shapes represent gatherings of family, journeys across Country and places where communities connect with land and culture.

Artists use these symbols to share stories that reflect connection to Country, cultural identity and the passing of knowledge between generations.

Explore our collection of original Aboriginal paintings or browse Aboriginal art prints created by KTAFA artists.

Explore Authentic Aboriginal Art by KTAFA Artists

KTAFA artists create authentic Aboriginal artworks inspired by Country, family and cultural storytelling traditions. Each painting carries its own story and connection to land.

Discover our collection of original Aboriginal paintings or browse Aboriginal art prints.