Australia’s desert landscapes, regarded as the ‘outback’ of Australia, have long been a great inspiration for artists. But it is the artists of the Western Desert, way out west from Alice Springs, that have taken the world by storm with their powerful and unique art; designs and images expressing their intimate connection to their Country and the Tjukurrpa.
The exhibition has a beautiful balance of works with strong iconography and incredible amount of mythological detail, as well as works that are extremely bold and graphic, such as esteemed artist Warlimpirringa Tjapaltjarri.
Warlimpirrnga paints in two main styles, using geometric shapes to represent the Tingari story, or lines interspersed with dotting for his dreaming concerning the sacred site of Lake Mackay of which he is the custodian. Warlimpirrnga employs a dotting technique shared with other Pintupi artists such as his brothers, Thomas and Walala, and with George Ward Tjungurrayi, artists also featured in the show.
Artworks by the great Tommy Watson command your attention when first entering the third level collectors' gallery
While artworks by Gracie Ward Napaltjarri invite you to take an intimate moment; to be amazed by the intuitive and authoritative expression of the intricacies of Country.
Some artworks may take visitors by surprise, such as Katjara Butler's dynamic and colourful pieces,
but we are certain this exhibition will leave visitors with a sense of wonder, and revel in the artistic genius of Australia's great artists from the Western Desert.
Can't visit the gallery? You can view the online exhibition here.
