The spectacular ranges of Central Australia, known for their dramatic change in colour are the inspiration for the latest exhibition at Mitchell Fine Art in Brisbane, showing from July 22nd.
‘Napaltjarri Sisters’ is an exhibition of paintings by sister duet – Daisy Jugadai Napaltjarri and Molly Jugadai Napaltjarri. Their paintings reveal the complex spiritual knowledge and relationships between the artists, their dreamings and the landscape surrounding the small community of Haasts Bluff, approximately 230km west of Alice Springs.
At first view, these paintings can be perceived as charming naïve landscapes, but there is a hidden complexity. Acting as a map of country, landmarks lead the initiated around the canvas portraying journeys women have made over generations, to hunt and collect native bush food.
Molly Jugadai Napaltjarri is the older of the two sisters. Her paintings reflect ancestral stories of her mother’s country and the important Napaltjarri sisters dreaming which represent the first people on earth. Molly played a significant role in the establishment of Ikuntji Women’s Centre, where many artists of the region now paint.
Daisy Jugadai Napaltjarri was a finalist in the National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards five times between 1993 and 2001 and was a section winner in 2000. Her bright, colourful artworks showcasing the native flora and landscapes of her homelands.
Sadly, both sisters are now deceased with Molly passing in 2011 and Daisy in 2008.
The exhibition is showing at Mitchell Fine Art from 22nd July to 29th August. The gallery open 6 days a week; Monday to Friday 10am – 5.30pm and Saturday 10am – 5pm, with onsite parking available.
Mitchell Fine Art is a large venue and there is ample room to view exhibitions safely, and the gallery staff are practising safe social interaction.
For those that are unable to visit Mitchell Fine Art offers virtual exhibition tours via FaceTime or Zoom; please contact the gallery for more information. Art lovers can sign up to the gallery’s mailing list via the website and can be followed on Facebook and Instagram.
