About Us - Tingari Arts
Tingari Arts was founded in 2002 by Linx Macpherson who lived in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, from 2000 until 2018.
Tingari Arts began working with Walala Tjapaltjarri and Pansy Napangati and then through ‘word of mouth’ many other artists joined them.
Tingari Arts has been privileged to work with many wonderful artists including (apart from Walala and Pansy) Gloria Petyarre, Kathleen Petyarre, Warlimpirrnga Tjapaltjarri, Thomas Tjapaltjarri, Narputta Nangala, Mitjili Napurrula, Ningura Napurrula, Tjunkiya Wakula Napaltjarri aka Linda Syddick, Ronnie Tjampitjinpa, George Ward Tjungurrayi, Lilly Kelly Napangardi, Daisy Napaltjarri Jugadai, Josie Petrick Kemarre plus many more whose art is included in this website.
The artists, mainly with family members, would arrive wanting to paint and the day also included breakfast, lunch, shopping, dealing with mechanics etc and, due to minimal English, assistance with government departments and any other concerns they had.
A day in Tingari Arts also involved family members sitting around the artist while they hear the Dreaming story of the painting. It was a privilege for Linx to be included in this and to learn these amazing stories that have passed down from generation to generation about the ‘creation time and the ancestors’. One wonderful artist would sing (in language) to the ancestors the story of his painting. All paintings have a story!
Most paintings are on Belgian linen primed by Linx with two coats of gesso and two of premium grade acrylics prior to the artist starting. The artists choose which size primed linen they want and tell Linx their required paint colours, which are also premium grade acrylics. Desert painters have mostly used acrylic paints since the Western Desert Art Movement began in 1970.
Over the 18 years Linx travelled extensively throughout Central Australia and visited artists in their communities and outstations. Although now living in NSW Linx returns to Central Australia whenever she can to continue her connection with these amazing people. Her initiated name is ‘Nungurrayi’
Tingari Arts has exhibited throughout Australia, Italy, UK and Singapore.
Tingari Arts is a member of the Indigenous Art Code and the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia.