Nintiringanyi, Kunpuringanyi (Learning, Becoming Strong)

Materials: tjanpi (native desert grass), raffia, steel wire frame, merino wool
Dimensions: L92cm x W70cm x D3cm

Coil weaving has long been a fibre art technique used by Tjanpi Desert Weavers to create baskets and sculptural work. Today, the practice of using raffia and wool to stitch tjanpi (native desert grasses) has become synonymous with the Central Desert Region. While weavers employ the same rhythmic techniques - threading, wrapping, coiling, stitching - distinctive weaving styles and innovative applications have emerged from artists across the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Lands. Nintiringanyi, Kunpuringanyi is a modern interpretation of a longstanding art practise – one that continues to transform with each newly contributing generation.

Nintiringanyi, Kunpuringanyi is a visual representation of intergenerational weaving knowledge, shared through kami (grandmothers), ngunytju (mothers), untal(pa) (daughters), kangkuru (sisters) and kuntili and ngunytju (aunties). Kaltukatjara weavers used colour and material to create intricate pattern and structure, transforming simple steel frames into relief-style wall art. The collaborative installations are a celebration of skills, individual weaving styles and the important activity and connection that is deeply rooted in the art practise for NPY women; being together out bush, collecting grass, visiting Country, hunting, teaching, learning and earning.

“I’m following the tracks my mother left. I was learning before from my mother Mrs. Kulitja, but now I am passing these skills on to others. This helps us keep going, and not to be lost” – Selina Kulitja