Collection: MAKINTI NAPANANGKA

Makinti led a traditional bush life as a member of the Pintupi group of indigenous people in the Western Desert Region. Later residing in communities in Haasts Bluff, Kiwirrkura, Papunya, and Kintore.

She began painting for Papunya Tula Artists in 1996 having already painted during the Kintore and Haast Bluff Project in 1994/1995.  

Makinti Napanangka's artwork is often multi-layered, with multiple meanings and interpretations that can be discerned from the patterns and symbols she uses. Her art is deeply rooted in the stories, beliefs, and cultural practices of her Indigenous community.

Makinti’s paintings are associated with linear designs representing the travels of Kungka Kutjarra (Two women) across the desert including the rockhole site at Lupulnga near Kintore. The free-flowing waves of bold, thick lines in her paintings depict the swirling hair string skirts/belts (these are woven with human hair) worn by aboriginal women during ceremonies associated with sites of importance.

Towards the end of her painting career Makinti’s eyesight was failing but it did not dampen her passion for painting. She would visit our family home (or fondly called the farm) and ask for vibrant acrylic paints so she could take home and later come back with her vibrant, colourful canvas.

In 2005, Makinti was named as one of Australia’s fifty most collectable artists by Australian Art Collector.  Her works are highly sought after and are exhibited in major and public collections and won numerous art awards.

Makinti was posthumously, appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2016 for her service to the Arts.