I paint my ngura (Country) and its red sand. This land is my grandfather’s country, he stood on this ground before me. I feel that connection to my family as I paint. This land that has held its many generations. This land is always changing, the rains come, and the winds shift. The red sand never changes, it is always here. I love the strong colours of the sand. When the sun sets, you can see the glow of the earth. I paint this country so people can see my land, they can appreciate its beauty and understand its power.
Our culture is very strong here, we teach our children in the community school, and we also teach them through our paintings, and through our time spent on Country. It is very important that the next generation understands by heart the Tjukurpa that has been passed down to us from our ancestors over many years. We tell the young people, you must listen and learn. It is important to keep our culture alive and strong long into the future.
My mother Kunmanara (Sadie) Singer, started Iwantja Arts many years ago with Alec Baker. She had a strong vision for the future of our community and also for sharing our stories and keeping our culture strong through the art centre. I think about her when I make my paintings. When I paint my Country, when I dance and sing the songs of my Country, I feel the spirit of my family and ancestors close to me. Their presence continues to watch over us and keep us strong.
Priscilla Singer is the daughter of Kunmanara (Sadie) Singer [1950 – 2014], who was a
founding artist of Iwantja Arts, a strong leader and a pioneering woman on the APY Lands. During her time working at Iwantja Arts, Priscilla has worked alongside her mother and other family members in the art centre across a wide range of mediums and techniques, including lino-cut, batik and painting. In recent years, Priscilla has established herself as an dedicated painter and a leader of women’s collaborative projects.
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.
