Tony Albert's bold reclamation of Aboriginalia at MCA

Artist Tony Albert transforms kitsch memorabilia into a powerful celebration of First Nations culture.

Told by Paige Turner · 1 September 2026

Tony Albert's latest exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), titled 'Not a Souvenir', is a fascinating exploration of Australia's kitsch history, turning problematic memorabilia into a celebration of First Nations culture. With over 4,500 items, including contributions from the public, the exhibition highlights the often stereotypical and racist representations of Indigenous peoples found in everyday souvenirs.

Albert, a Girramay, Yidindji, Kuku Yalanji man, initiated a callout for what he terms 'Aboriginalia', resulting in more than 400 objects sent in by the public and a vast array of unique home crafts. The submissions range from vintage wrapping paper to golliwogs, showcasing the complex interactions between nostalgia, appropriation, and cultural identity.

The exhibition aims to repurpose these items to foster conversations around Indigenous survival and pride. Albert acknowledges the problematic roots of these objects while also recognizing the well-meaning intentions of past owners. By examining the social histories attached to these kitsch items, he reveals how various communities have engaged with Indigenous culture, often through a lens of affection and solidarity.

One standout piece in the collection is a board game from the now-defunct Murfett Games, featuring overtly caricatured depictions of Aboriginal people, which Albert had never encountered in his extensive collecting journey. He reflects on how these representations reflect broader narratives of cultural commodification, particularly significant given the MCA's location at a historic site where the First Fleet arrived.

Albert sees his work as part of a lineage of First Nations artists who have reclaimed painful racial motifs, aiming not to make people feel guilty but to celebrate the resilience of the world's oldest living culture.