The Artists of Ampilatwatja art centre was established in 1999. Ampilatwatja is 325 km north-east of Mparntwe / Alice Springs. The work produced by the artists is recognisably distinct from other Aboriginal artistic communities, due to the application of fine dots and the figurative depiction of the landscape and its flora. Most of the artists paint arreth (native fuschia), and other bush medicine plants, demonstrating a deep connection to country. This country has provided for and sustained Alyawarr people for generations, and the paintings pay homage to the significance and use of traditional bush medicine, allowing an insight into their community. In keeping with the cultural laws, the artists reveal only a small amount of knowledge. The esoteric information that is held sacred to these artists and their people is layered underneath the common visual narrative, masked by the delicately layered dots of the painting. Their vibrant palette and depiction of plants, geography and light comes from the artists’ intimate and close association with their homelands.
Desert Mob is presented annually in Mparntwe | Alice Springs on Arrernte Country.
On behalf of Desart’s staff and art centre members, the Executive Committee humbly and respectfully acknowledge the Arrernte Apmereke Artweye (Traditional Owners) and Kwertengerle (Traditional Managers) of Mparntwe.
Desart respectfully advises Aboriginal readers that this website may contain names, images and artworks of people who have passed away.
