True Story

We’re so excited to be part of True Story — a powerful new exhibition sharing the moments, memories, joys, and challenges of desert life, told through the eyes of First Nations artists from across Central Australia.

Presented by Artback NT, with support from Alice Springs Town Council and Regional Arts Australia, True Story brings together work from six outstanding art centres: each sharing powerful stories shaped by life on Country, in town camps, and in remote communities.

This exciting exhibition opens Thursday 1 May 2025 at Tangentyere Artists in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, with a public launch event from 3.30pm. Everyone is welcome!

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is proud to present Docker River Bush Bus as part of True Story — a fibre work crafted by Kaltukatjara (Docker River) artists. Through woven forms, this piece honours the much-loved Centre Bush Bus and its role in connecting families across the vast NPY Lands.

“He [Alan Passmore] asked us if we thought that would be a good idea, and we said ‘palya’! He flew to Perth to buy a big new bus, and drove it all the way back... Everyone was excited, the kids were all climbing in the bus! The same size as a Greyhound!"

- Rosalinda Yibardi, senior Tjanpi artist

Today, the Centre Bush Bus continues to service over 35 remote communities — a vital link for families to reach services and each other. Through their fibre art, Tjanpi artists celebrate the connection, and community this bus has made possible.

True Story will be open at Tangentyere Artists until 30 May 2025. We hope to see you there!