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 maintained 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 are an activity of the Shire of East Pilbara, and gratefully acknowledge BHP Billiton as their Principal Partner.
This NAIDOC week, we are proud to publicly launch the Martumili App – a bespoke mobile-based app designed and developed by Specialist Apps, to enhance the gallery experience for customers near and far.
Jenny was born in Bidyadanga, a coastal community in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Today, she shares her life journey between Bidyadanga and Parnngurr, reflecting on how the contrasting landscapes and the teachings of her grandparents have deeply influenced and enriched her art.
As part of the 2025 Perth Festival Program, artist Judith Anya Samson exhibited her debute solo show – Anya’s Puntawarri World. Here, curator Emilia Galatis dives deep into the political context of Anya’s paintings and symbolism.
Earlier this year, Martumili Artists undertook the Return to Punmu project—an initiative that brought artists back to Punmu, a community some no longer live in but remain deeply connected to on Martu Country. The trip offered Martu artists the opportunity to reconnect with Country, reunite with family and the wider community, and work collaboratively on a large-scale painting.
From international exhibitions and exciting workshops to local art festivals and collaborations, 2024 has been a year of creativity and connection for Martumili Artists. Our artists and staff have been busier than ever, sharing the richness of Martu culture with the world. Join us to reflect on all the special moments.
Joining us today for a cuppa tea from the Punmu art shed is Dianne Marney. We chat with Dianne about her early life and her learning journey as an artist, as well as some of the other things she loves to do!
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Martumili Artists warns visitors that our website includes images and artworks of Artists who have passed away which may cause distress to some Indigenous people.
Martumili Artists acknowledges the Nyiyaparli and Martu people as the Traditional Owners of the land we live and work on. We also acknowledge the Traditional Owners throughout our country and our Elders; past, present and emerging.
