Alcaston Gallery is thrilled to present a major exhibition of new paintings in ochre on linen by Pedro Wonaeamirri, and carvings in ochre on ironwood by Patrick Freddy Puruntatameri. In this highly anticipated exhibition which took three years in the making, both senior Tiwi artists have produced masterful artworks that simultaneously embody strong ties to traditional Tiwi culture and contemporary artistic innovation.

Pedro Wonaeamirri's new paintings reaffirm his standing as a significant and influential Tiwi artist of generations past and present. A leader in his community, Pedro depicts the traditional Jilamara design and aesthetic with natural ochres and Kayimwagakimi (traditional ironwood painting comb) meticulously applied to linen and bark, resulting in a highly sophisticated and contemporary interpretation of his culture.

Pedro's paintings indicate a profound knowledge of his heritage, combined with a confidence that allows him to approach his compositions with his own unique vision. This body of work sees Pedro reach new artistic heights, working in a larger scale than ever before, with a methodical and highly sophisticated aesthetic that confirms the artist as a master of his medium.

Patrick Freddy Puruntatameri's new series of carvings espouse a powerful declaration of Tiwi culture through their dedication to traditional carving styles. His imposing Pukamani poles and sculptures - including the goddess Wai-ai, her husband AK19265&AK19264_02croppedPurakapali, and Tokampini (the bird-man) - recreate the Tiwi mythology of the first funeral ceremony, here recontextualised through contemporary eyes.

The skills and knowledge required to make adornments like Mari'wi (Tiwi woven pandanas & goose feather ceremonial skirt), Pomitiki (feathered headdress), and Parmagini (woven pandanus armband) have been revived for this exhibition.

*image (left)
Pedro Wonaeamirri
Jilamara, 2012
Natural ochres on linen, 150 x 75 cm
courtesy of the Artist, Jilamara Arts and Crafts, NT & Alcaston Gallery, Melbourne