07/08/2026
Today, we honour the extraordinary legacy of Thomas Tjapaltjarri and Walala Tjapaltjarri—two remarkable Pintupi artists whose stories and artworks have left an enduring mark on Australian Aboriginal art.
As members of the renowned Pintupi Nine, Thomas and Walala were among the last people to make first contact with the outside world after living a traditional nomadic life in the Western Desert. Their journey from the vast desert landscapes to becoming internationally celebrated artists is one of resilience, cultural strength, and the enduring power of tradition.
Through every painting, they shared the stories of Country, Tjukurrpa (Dreaming), sacred sites, and ancestral knowledge that had been passed down through countless generations. Their distinctive styles not only captivated collectors around the world but also helped preserve and celebrate one of the world's oldest living cultures.
The Tjapaltjarri family's contribution to Aboriginal art extends far beyond Thomas and Walala. Their legacy lives on through their relatives and future generations, who continue to share the rich traditions of the Pintupi people through art.
Although Thomas and Walala are no longer with us, their spirit lives on in every canvas they created and in the stories they entrusted to the world. Their works will continue to educate, inspire, and connect people to the beauty and depth of Aboriginal culture for generations to come.
On behalf of everyone at Mandel Aboriginal Art Gallery, we express our deepest gratitude for their immense contribution to the Aboriginal art world. Their legacy will never be forgotten.
🖤 Rest in peace, Thomas Tjapaltjarri and Walala Tjapaltjarri. Thank you for sharing your stories, your culture, and your remarkable artistic legacy with the world.
