Irrititja Kuwarri Tjungu (Past and Present Together): Fifty Years of Papunya Tula Artists

Aboriginal artists from Australias remote Central and Western Deserts created a painting movement in 1971 to assert authority and preserve cultural knowledge. This movement grew into a powerful medium for economic and social justice, creating a multimillion-dollar industry and changing the face of contemporary art.

Format: Hardback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2022
Publisher: University of Virginia Press

In 1971, a small group of Aboriginal artists from Australias remote Central and Western Deserts embarked on a transformative journey that would forever reshape the landscape of global art history. The township of Papunya was established in 1959 as a settlement for Aboriginal people who had been forcibly relocated from their homelands. Living in cramped conditions, the community brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds and languages, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures. Painting emerged as a powerful tool for assertion and self-expression, offering a means to navigate the tumultuous mélange of strangers and assert authority amidst the uncertainty of colonial displacement.

The artists of Papunya Tula Artists, driven by a deep desire to preserve and transmit their cultural knowledge, embarked on a series of experimental works using scraps of cardboard, linoleum, and Masonite. Their artistic journey evolved into an epic abstract expression, showcasing their unique perspectives and artistic vision. The movement quickly gained momentum, attracting the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Over time, Papunya Tula Artists became a powerful force for economic and social justice. Their artwork not only captured the essence of Indigenous culture but also became a catalyst for change. The multimillion-dollar industry that emerged from their work not only provided a source of income for the artists but also helped to promote Indigenous art and culture globally.

Irrititja Kuwarri Tjungu (Past and Present Together), a stunning exhibition celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Papunya Tula Artists, showcases the evolution of their artistic journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim. The exhibition explores the rich tapestry of their work, from the early experiments on cardboard and linoleum to the epic abstract paintings that are now showcased in galleries and museums around the world.

Through their art, Papunya Tula Artists have created a powerful voice for Indigenous artists, challenging stereotypes and promoting cultural understanding. Their work has inspired generations of artists and activists, and their legacy continues to shape the landscape of contemporary art.

In conclusion, the transformative journey of Papunya Tula Artists in 1971 marked a significant turning point in global art history. Their bold use of abstraction, their commitment to cultural preservation, and their powerful voice for social justice have not only changed the face of contemporary art but also paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape.

Weight: 1490g
Dimension: 241 x 300 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781735326924