Martumili Artists

Martumili Artists was established by Martu people living in the communities of Parnpajinya (Newman), Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu, Kunawarritji, Irrungadji and Warralong, and it draws on strong influences of aboriginal art history. The artists and their families are the traditional custodians of vast stretches of the Great Sandy, Little Sandy and Gibson Deserts as well as the Karlamilyi (Rudall River) area. Most Martu people maintain an entirely independent, nomadic desert lifestyle until the 1950s and 1960s when they walked into settlements in response to a long and severe drought. Today, Martu people live in their own communities and regularly visit regional centres such as Newman and Port Hedland.

Martumili Artists are based in the East Pilbara Arts Centre in Newman, with artists working in the 6 other remote East Pilbara communities. Martumili Artists is a place of autonomy for Martu artists; it is a pukurlpa (happy) and safe place where everyone is welcome. Martu artists are involved in every aspect of the Art Centre, and it is a place where art-making is also the practice of place-making. Bright, bold and expressive art encapsulates the contemporary aesthetic and cultural authenticity of Martumili artists – whose stories and knowledge of Country and culture directly inform their practice.