Rochelle Ferguson

Irrunytju WA

Rochelle is an artist belonging to the Pitjantjatjara language and cultural group.  Originally from Irrunytju community in remote Western Australia, Rochelle now lives in Alice Springs, NT. 

Rochelle is the daughter of Ann Cleary-Farrell, a senior Tjanpi artist. Rochelle’s mother began teaching her to weave in 2004, however, it was not until 2011 that she began creating more regularly. Since this time, Rochelle’s style has developed quickly. Her work is characterised by long, neatly wrapped strands of grass which she collects from nearby riverbeds and clay pans.

Rochelle’s weaving practice centres on creating tjulpu (birds) sculptures, exploring their colours and movements during flight.  Talking about her work, Rochelle says: “I love watching all the birds that live around us and capturing them in Tjanpi [sculptural form], they are really important animals to my family”.