Martumili Artists was established by Martu people living in the communities of Parnpajinya / Newman, Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu, Kunawarritji, Irrungadji and Warralong. The artists and their families are the traditional custodians of vast stretches of the Great Sandy, Little Sandy and Gibson deserts, as well as the Karlamilyi / Rudall River area. Most Martu people maintained an entirely independent, nomadic desert lifestyle until the 1950s and 1960s when they walked into settlements in response to a long and severe drought.
Martumili Artists is based in the East Pilbara Arts Centre in Parnpajinya, with artists working in the six other remote East Pilbara communities. Martumili Artists is a place of autonomy for Martu artists; it is a pukurlpa (happy) and safe place where everyone is welcome. Martu artists are involved in every aspect of the art centre, and it is a place where art-making is also the practice of place-making. Bright, bold and expressive art encapsulates the contemporary aesthetic and cultural authenticity of Martumili artist, whose stories and knowledge of country and culture directly inform their practice.
