Anatjari Tjakamarra
Pintupi people NT/WA c.1938-1992
Kulkuta 1987
Acrylic on linen
213 x 234.5 cm
BCEC Art Collection
Anatjarri Tjakamarra was a central figure in the Papunya Tula art movement. Born in remote Pintupi Country near Kulkuta, he was among the original Papunya painters from 1971. Renowned for his precise line work, the artist depicted Tingari ceremonial narratives. He was one of the first artists to translate Pintupi optical traditions – where repeated concentric lines and colour clashes create pulsating movements within paintings – onto canvas paintings.
The site of Kulkuta, approximately 120 kilometres south of the Kiwirrkura community, is depicted in this painting. Kulkuta is an important rockhole site associated with the Tingari ancestors, the first ancestors to traverse the desert, creating features within the landscape and imbuing them with cultural significance.
As the ceremonies at this site form part of the secret-sacred Tingari cycle, no further detail can be given.
Kulkuta can be viewed in Plaza Gallery.