Aboriginal Australians are Earth's oldest civilization: DNA study

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Aboriginal culture dates as far back as 80,000 years, but modern canvas works are finding popularity with international buyers. Pictured, "Marrapinti" by Naata Nungurrayi. Her work often hints at sacred women's ceremonial sites, their dancing, and the designs on their bodies.
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Traditionally paintings were done on rock walls, as body paint, or simply in the dirt or sand. Today most Aboriginal paintings depict stories and "Dreamings" about the land, culture and ceremonies. Pictured, "Water" by Kurun Warun.
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Eddie Blitner paints Mimis -- tiny match-thin spirits which Aborigines believe have lived in the escarpments since the beginning of time. Mimis are so shy they only come out at night with their weapons and pets such as goannas, kangaroos and porcupines. Pictured, Blitner's "Mimi Spirits and Rainbow Serpent."
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A lot of artists don't start painting until much later in life. Stories are passed down through generations within certain groups. Pictured, "Medicine Leaves" by Gloria Petyarre.
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