View artworks by Tjawina Porter Nampitjinpa
LANGUAGE: Ngaatjatjarra and Pintupi/Luritja.
Tjawina Porter Nampitjinpa was born around 1931 (deceased 2024), and grew up in the Western Desert of Australia where she lived a traditional lifestyle with her family. Her birthplace was a site called WirrulyI-WirruIyI, west of Kuruyurltu. She first moved out of the bush to Warburton mission, then travelled to Kaltukatjara (Docker River) before there were any houses.
Tjawina had three children all born in sites around the important country of Pangkupirri, two sons, Charlie and Mal Porter, and a daughter Fiona Young.
Tjawina was half sister to Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa (also an acclaimed artist), aka “Mrs Bennett” / “Mrs B”. Tjawina was a ‘bush baby’ – she grew up ‘in the bush’ with her family. When her younger brother passed away her family decided to move to the then newly established government settlement of Papunya. When Tjawina was widowed she returned to live in her country with family members including her sister Esther Giles Nampitjinpa who was also an artist.
Her artworks represent the traditional homelands associated with her people’s ancestral heritage. The iconography depicts sand dunes known as ‘tali” and rock escarpments known as “puli”, as well as waterholes and food sources. Her designs are often used in body art during traditional ceremonies. The artworks depict the physical markings that the ancient ancestors have provided to give evidence of their activities during the time of creation. Tjawina’s artworks are rich in symbolism and fine detail, with brushwork and dots travelling steadily across the canvas to reveal the undulating forms of her country. Her extensive cultural and topographical knowledge are evident in her paintings, which evoke the movement and energy of desert landscapes.
Tjawina’s artwork has gained worldwide recognition, having participated in many national and international group exhibitions. Her works are represented in private and public collections in Australia and overseas.