The Women of Papunya
their stories, their way
7 March - 29 March
forty years ago, these ladies watched the birth of an art movement
years later they showed the world it’s not just the fellas who can paint
When we think of the birth of the Aboriginal art movement, we instantly think of the humble settlement known as Papunya; of Geoffrey Bardon and of the original Papunya 'painting men'.
The men who began painting at Papunya in 1971-72 are considered the pioneers of Western Desert art.
Little did we know that the women of Papunya were watching on, and in later years would follow in their footsteps, capturing the hearts and imagination of the art world.
Ningura Napurrula, the sole female desert artist to paint the ceiling of the acclaimed Musee du quai Branly in Paris.
This month we have dedicated our third level collectors' gallery to celebrate 19 of the ladies from Papunya, who showed the world it's not just the men who can paint, and honour the women who have made a profound contribution to the Western Desert art movement and international contemporary art.
There are stunning museum quality works, such as this Ningura Napurrula piece, titled 'Wirrulunga'
As well as gorgeous examples of the artists' work, which won't break the budget!
Mitjili Napurrula Collaborative, Lily Kelly Napangardi & Linda Syddick Napaltjarri
There's also a few artists that will suprise you, such as Utopian artist Barbara Weir, who was working in the kitchen at Papunya and witnessed the birth of the Aboriginal art movement.
Barbara Weir Untitled 118 x 178cm
While the artists' style and subject matter/dreaming stories may vary, there is a confidence and assuredness in their work which comes from a deep and intimate knowledge of culture and country - they are painting their stories, their way.
We hope you can make it to this delightful exhibition that is a 'must-see' for avid fans and collectors of Aboriginal art.
look forward to seeing you in the gallery soon!
