Tjemma (Freda) NAPANANGKA

Old Man Story , 1995

Art : Aboriginal
Origine : Balgo Hills
Dimensions : 75 x 50 cm
Medium : Acrylic on canvas
Price : Nous contacter/ Contact Us
N° : 4831

Tjemma (Freda) Napanangka (1935–2004) was a first-generation artist from Balgo Hills, a region located at the junction of the Tanami and Great Sandy Deserts in remote Western Australia.

This work employs a traditional 'satellite-view' approach to the land, characterised by thick, textured paint and connected dots that create the illusion of vibrant, energetic lines. The bright colour palette enhances both the visual impact and the ritualistic nature of the story.

The artist references a gathering of men, represented by U-shaped forms arranged around a line depicting a path or track. This line is flanked on either side by concentric circles, likely symbolising a camp, waterhole, or fire.

Tjemma Napanangka’s work embodies the Balgo Hills style, characterised by a combination of traditional motifs, dots, and dynamic lines. Other major artists in this style include Helicopter Tjungurrayi, Minnie Pwerle, and George Ward Tjungurrayi, who played a major role in establishing Balgo Hills as a leading centre of contemporary Aboriginal art.