Papunya Tjupi Arts: Western Desert Artists, Papunya, NT
When the Pintupi people left Papunya for Kintore in 1981, they took the Papunya Tula name with them. The community that had produced one of the most significant art movements in Australian history was left without an art centre for more than 25 years. In 2007, founding artists Michael Nelson Tjapaltjarri and Long Jack Phillipus Tjakamarra established Papunya Tjupi Arts to fill that vacuum. Located 250km northwest of Alice Springs (Mparntwe), at the corner of Abbott Road and Possum Crescent, Papunya Tjupi is 100% Aboriginal owned and directed, supporting 150 artists from Papunya and surrounding outstations. In 2018-19, the centre constructed a dedicated men's studio, which has significantly increased the participation of young men from the community.
The artists at Papunya Tjupi have built their own identity from the legacy of their forefathers. They are known for strong line-work and for continuously developing new ways to tell the old stories. When asked why they make art, the answer at Papunya Tjupi is consistently the same: "for the children." Papunya itself is restricted Aboriginal land. The community of around 400 people sits close to Australia's continental pole of inaccessibility, and the road from the last service point at Glen Helen is 78km of unsealed track. The art centre's on-site gallery is open to visitors who have obtained the required entry permit.
Papunya Tjupi Arts at a glance
- Location: Corner Abbott Road and Possum Crescent, Papunya Community, NT. 250km northwest of Alice Springs (Mparntwe).
- Established: 2007, founded by Michael Nelson Tjapaltjarri and Long Jack Phillipus Tjakamarra.
- People: Pintupi, Luritja, and other Western Desert language groups.
- Artists: 150 from Papunya and surrounding outstations.
- Art style: Western Desert acrylic painting. Known for strong line-work and ongoing development of new ways to tell traditional stories.
- Access: Papunya is restricted Aboriginal land. A permit is required to enter. Sealed road to Glen Helen, then 78km unsealed to Papunya (1–1.5 hours). Alternatively via the Tanami Road: 130km sealed from Alice Springs, then 100km unsealed (1–1.5 hours).
- Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9am–5pm. Fridays and weekends by appointment.
