The visit to Kaltukatjara (see earlier story) not only yielded first hand some of the challenges the community experience on a daily basis, but important insights into the role of the local Art Centre.
Prior to colonization sharing stories orally and via art was THE vehicle for Indigenous cultural and Spiritual education. Iconography, cave painting, body painting, drawing in sand, singing, provided, as Dr Elizabeth Marrkilyi Ellis said recently, “ an “encyclopedia of knowledge.” Through art one also felt a sense of connection, identity, love and stewardship for country, for community.
In the 1930’s and 40’s the Anangu peoples, ( Pitjantjatjatjara, Ngaanyatjarra and Yankunytjatjra ) were still living on country, and leading a nomadic lifestyle. They were “encouraged,” many forcibly , to move to Missions, or settlements such as in Warburton, or the Areyonga Mission near Hermannsburg. Sadly, many were also rendered very unwell from the Maralinga Nuclear Testing during the mid 1950’s to early 1960’s. The number of deaths is unknown. The move to Missions meant that practicing traditional culture was actively discouraged. However, some, like Artist, the late Tjawina Nampitjinpa Porter, lived a traditional lifestyle until the 1970’s, before re- locating to Papunya, a government settlement.
In the late 1960’s ‘Docker River’- Kaltukatjara as a community was borne, as many Anangu peoples chose to return to their heartland.
The Aboriginal owned art centre at Kaltukatjara is of vital importance for residents to paint, share stories, pass on knowledge, and preserve cultural identity. At Kaltukatjara Art centre, they see their primary purpose: ”to preserve and pass on Aboriginal culture through creative practices, while also bringing tangible and economic and social benefits to our communities… over the years we’ve established a strong national presence, supporting leading artists and significantly contributing to the wellbeing of both individuals and our broader community.”
Rotary Preston’s Ruth McCall, and husband Peter were delighted to visit the Art Centre, speak with some of the artists, and observe their complex and awe- inspiring work.
For more information: go to https://tjarlirliart.com
Please note: Agency- an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander not- for-profit has a gallery space at 47 Easey St Collingwood. Weds- Friday 11am-3pm. They are currently exhibiting works by Artist, the late Tjawina Nampitjinpa Porter, with an accompanying video recording reflections by the artist on country.
