NSW Parliament House - Launch

18th September 2025

Last night, NSW Legislative Council president, Ben Franklin officially opened The Evolution of the Barba Women and Desert Flower – Polish Factor! by acclaimed Aboriginal artist Bibi Barba, now on display on the Parliament of NSW’s Reconciliation Wall.

Bibi's distinctive Desert Flowers motif, inspired by her grandmother’s stories, speaks to resilience, connection and cultural strength.

The reference to "Polish Factor" acknowledges a significant chapter in Bibi's journey, when she discovered her Desert Flowers had been replicated without permission throughout a hotel in Poland. Bibi's legal battle to reclaim authorship and rights was captured in the documentary Stolen in Poland, bringing global attention to the misappropriation of Aboriginal art and highlighting the need for stronger protection of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property.

Barba shared her excitement to be exhibiting at Parliament House - "I'm thrilled to be exhibiting at the Parliament of New South Wales. This exhibition celebrates the resilience of the Barba women, and my Desert Flowers carry our stories forward while reminding us of the importance of protecting Aboriginal culture and creativity," she said.

"Bibi Barba's work is powerful and profound, and we are honoured to host her exhibition at NSW Parliament. It's a celebration of culture and a reminder of the need to protect Indigenous art," said Ben Franklin. We are honoured to host Bibi’s extraordinary work at Parliament. I encourage everyone to visit and experience it for themselves, on display in Fountain Court until 30 October.