Martumili News

Chatting with artist Sylvia Wilson, conversation easily stretches across time and through a myriad of subjects. She’s witty, perceptive, spiritual, and animated by a profound enthusiasm for art, life, and human connection. Given that she works every day in the Martumili Gallery as their principal gallery assistant, we hope you soon have the chance to talk with her too! In the meantime, learn more about Sylvia over a cuppa tea.

Field Officer Zoe Martyn narrates a typical day of art production and community life, as experienced in the iconic Parnngurr Art Shed. Accompanied with photography from Michelle Troop, this photo-essay offers insight into the chaos, harmony, and ultimately cultural connection that occurs in Martumili art studios across the Western Desert.

Since our inception in 2006, Martumili Artists have been recognised as a collective of exceptionally talented painters and weavers. At the same time, we’ve never been shy of experimentation, and to date our artists have embraced working in mediums including photography, wood carving, animation, and printmaking. So, when the opportunity to work with sonic producers Turn New Music to create sound art, we jumped at the opportunity.

Having a yarn with Kuru Gladys Bidu, her powerful presence reverberates through her confident, considered speech and commanding voice. Listen a little closer, and the softer side of her nature is revealed with a genuine tone of sincerity, sense of humour, and frequently reflective expression. These attributes serve Kuru well in her many social and cultural roles as a respected elder and Punmu community leader, cultural advisor and board member of Punmu School, and a member of Wangka Lampa Kujungka (the Martu voice) – the group of artists that provide governance direction for the Martumili Artists.