The Atlas Obscura Podcast · Monday, September 14, 2026
In 1934, white Australian painter Rex Spaderby visited Hermannsburg and met Albert Namatjira. After seeing Spaderby's work, Namatjira was inspired, and they formed a mentorship where Spaderby taught Namatjira watercolor techniques. This collaboration led to Namatjira's paintings being included in Spaderby's exhibits the following year.
“But Albert had a decisive event in his life when he met Rex Spaderby. Rex Spaderby was a white Australian painter. He traveled all over Australia to paint landscapes. And in 1934, Rex came through Hermannsburg where he and another painter showed their art.”
“That Rex would teach Albert how to paint. And Albert would become his quote, camel boy.”
“So impressed that the next year, Rex included a few of Albert's paintings in his own exhibit.”