Local artists share stories in Perth show

Indigenous artists have shared the stories of their land with an audience over 1500km away as part of the eighth Colours of our Country Aboriginal art exhibition in Perth.

The Rio Tinto-sponsored exhibition opened on Monday and showcases the work of leading Pilbara artists.

A collection of more than 300 paintings and artefacts from more than 40 Pilbara-based Aboriginal artists feature in the collection, with many of the artists practising under the umbrellas of Yinjaa-Barni Art and Roebourne Art Group.

Independent artists from Roebourne, Tom Price and Pannawonica contributed to this year's exhibition.

Roebourne Arts Group manager and artist Loreen Samson has 24 paintings featured in the exhibition and flew to Perth for the launch.

Ms Samson, who recently won the WA indigenous artist category at the 2013 Cossack Art Awards, said she painted about her culture and country.

"It's telling you a story and wanting you to listen to the country through the eyes of the artwork," she said.

She said her paintings helped to pass stories from one generation to another.

The exhibition supports economic development opportunities for artists and art groups.

Since its launch, 1384 artworks have been sold generating more than $1.3 million for artists, art groups and communities.

The exhibit will run until October 4 in the Central Park building.