The work of Australia’s Aboriginal and indigenous artists is among the most powerful created today. Abstract and often deeply patterned, the paintings are scaled to hold a sensation of vast grasslands and deserts. Ancient stories, symbols, and dreams have a presence in these canvases as well, and are unique to family lineages. At the National Arts Club, six such paintings from the collection of actor Steve Martin and his wife, Anne Stringfield, are on view. The five artists in the exhibition are Bill Whiskey Tjapaltjarri, Timo Hogan, Carlene West, Warlimpirrnga Tjapaltjarri, and Doreen Reid Nakamarra. —Laura Jacobs