Muna Kulyuru

Muna Kulyuru is a celebrated artist and cultural custodian from the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia. Born in 1964 at Tjiwuru near Ernabella, Muna's artistic journey began early through her involvement with Tjurma Homelands Art and Craft Centre. Today, she paints for her APY Land based art centres and with trusted private galleries, where she paints alongside her sister, Janie Kulyuru.

Muna's artwork is rooted in the stories of her mother's Country, Watarru, located in the southwestern corner of the APY Lands. Through her intricate paintings, she brings to life the rich cultural narratives of Anangu women - their dances around the fire, their connection to the land, and the enduring significance of Country. As an Anangu teacher and community leader, Muna sees her art as an extension of her role in preserving and passing down language and culture. "I teach my language and culture," she says. "I paint my mother's story; I pass down the stories about women dancing around the fire, where my mother was born."

Muna's paintings are distinguished by their vibrant palette and dynamic techniques. She uses punu (wood) sticks to apply acrylic paint in meticulous dotting patterns and areas of compressed color. These techniques create works that burst with energy, capturing the vitality of the desert landscape. Her art celebrates the complex beauty of her homeland, portraying the life and color that thrive within it.

A finalist for the prestigious Wynne Prize in 2024, Muna's career has seen significant growth in recent years. The APY Lands have become renowned for their exciting band of women artists, and Muna's distinctive style positions her as a leading figure in this vibrant movement. Her works not only celebrate her heritage but also invite audiences to connect with the enduring stories and spirit of the APY Lands.

Muna Kulyuru's art embodies a powerful dialogue between tradition and contemporary expression, offering a window into the heart of her culture and the landscapes she holds dear.



Copyright Kate Owen Gallery, January 2025