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 Karlamilyi (Ruddal River National Park). 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. Martumili Governance Martumili Artists is a not for profit, Martu driven art centre that operates as an activity of the Shire of East Pilbara. Martumili has worked with Martu artists to establish a Martu artist advisory group- Wangka Lampa Kujungka. Wangka Lampa Kujungka (WLK) means ‘One Mob One Voice’. It is ‘the Martu Voice’- the group of Martu artists chosen to be voice of Martu artists to the Shire and to the staff of Martumili about how Martumili Artists should operate as a community project for Martu.