Yams, Tomatoes, Potatoes & Plums from October 25, 2021 to December 11, 2021 at The Stamp Gallery | University of Maryland, College Park | Written by Helen Feng

There are many striking and remarkable characteristics of the artwork in this new exhibition, Yams, Tomatoes, Potatoes & Plums. This show celebrates the bush tucker of First Nations Australia with works created by contemporary indigenous Australian artists. Anyone that walks by the gallery sees that these pieces are huge attention-grabbers, with their millions of dots and dashes and the patterns and textures made of the paint. What stood out the most to me was the outstanding and vibrant array of colors. None of the pieces were dull at all, many created with blends of reds, yellows, and purples. There were even pieces that included every color in the rainbow.

This show feels like a big celebration, and the colors contribute to this feeling. With so many golden tones, the painting emitted a sort of light, and brightness to the gallery, drawing people in to appreciate the work. As a viewer, these pieces give me a sense of welcoming and of uplifting hope. The prosperous colors highlight the bountifulness and prosperity in life, urging the viewer to appreciate and remember everything they have around them.

For more information on Yams, Tomatoes, Potatoes & Plums and related events, visit https://stamp.umd.edu/stamp_gallery