About Marlu Galleries
Ian Matheson
CEO and Owner of Marlu Galleries
Ian Matheson, CEO and owner of Marlu Galleries is representing a prestigious collection of both indigenous work from South Australia and Northern Territories, and all over Australia. Our museum collection is to be noted in the National Art Gallery listings of Australia.​​
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Ian Matheson is a proud advocate for Indigenous culture, art, and community empowerment. As the CEO and Director of Marlu Galleries Glenelg, Ian has dedicated his career to creating opportunities for First Nations artists to share their stories, preserve their heritage, and build sustainable futures.
Growing up with a deep respect for Aboriginal culture and history, Ian’s journey has been shaped by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference. Through his leadership, Marlu Galleries has become a cultural landmark —
a dedicated Indigenous art gallery in Glenelg, South Australia.
Since opening its doors, Marlu Galleries Glenelg has showcased a diverse range of Aboriginal artworks from across Australia, from traditional dot paintings and Dreamtime stories to modern interpretations that speak to contemporary life. The gallery is more than a space for art; it is a cultural meeting place where visitors can connect with the world’s oldest continuous culture through exhibitions, workshops, and talks.
Under Ian’s guidance, the gallery has also launched the Tide & Totem range — an exclusive collection of homewares and apparel that fuses traditional Indigenous designs with contemporary style. This initiative provides an ongoing income stream for artists, ensuring that each purchase directly benefits the creator and their community.
Ian is also an accomplished artist in his own right, with works sold to collectors locally and nationally. Through Marlu Galleries, he runs art classes and cultural education sessions, inspiring others to explore their creativity while fostering a deeper understanding of Aboriginal traditions.
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With a strong vision for the future, Ian is committed to expanding Marlu Galleries Glenelg’s reach — bringing Indigenous art into new markets, collaborating with national institutions, and continuing to tell the stories that have been passed down for tens of thousands of years.
Mattia Johnson
Co-Director of Marlu Galleries
The offering of original artworks, gift wares and workshops along with our association with schools and government bodies secures our unique space within the market. Our services have ranged to Reconciliation talks and NAIDOC talks to communicate understanding of what it is to be an indigenous member of society in this day and age with social and art classes. ​
Ian is an award winning artist as runner up NAIDOC SALA 2024, runner up Telstra NATSIAA Awards and as a proud indigenous man hailing from the Torres Strait Islands, has connections to the land and sea. He is also the designer of the Marlu Galleries merchandise.
Mattia Johnson is a proud Yandruwandha/Barkindji woman, artist, and cultural advocate. As Co-Director of Marlu Galleries Glenelg and partner to CEO Ian Matheson, Mattia plays a vital role in shaping the gallery’s vision, curation, and community engagement.
Deeply connected to her heritage, Mattia’s work reflects the stories, symbols, and landscapes of her people. Her art often draws on traditional meeting place designs, waterway motifs, and the colours of Country — blending ancient cultural knowledge with contemporary style.
Many of her designs are featured in the gallery’s exclusive Tide & Totem range, which brings authentic Indigenous art to homewares and apparel while supporting artists with sustainable income opportunities.
Mattia is committed to ensuring that every piece showcased at Marlu Galleries is both culturally respectful and ethically sourced. She works closely with artists to understand their stories and ensure they are represented with integrity. Her passion extends beyond the gallery walls — she regularly participates in cultural education programs, school visits, and community events to inspire understanding and respect for Aboriginal heritage.
As an artist and leader, Mattia’s contributions have helped position Marlu Galleries Glenelg as not only a place to view art, but as a space to experience living culture. She embodies the gallery’s mission: to connect people to Country, culture, and community through creativity.
Her achievements include:
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Co-creating and curating the Tide & Totem product line
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Showcasing original artworks across South Australia and beyond
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Contributing to Marlu Galleries Glenelg’s recognition as NAIDOC Small Business of the Year 2025
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Actively promoting cultural sustainability for Yandruwandha/Barkindji artists and other First Nations creators
Through her leadership and artistry, Mattia continues to ensure that Aboriginal culture is not only celebrated, but passed on to future generations with pride and authenticity.
Artwork 'Medicine Leaves' by Ian Matheson