Walala Tjapaltjarri (Pintupi) & Michael Eather

Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2025 - Finalist

_{Image courtesy of the artist}

Artist Statement

Walala Tjapaltjarri and Michael Eather have been working together for 25 years, often producing collaborative paintings and sculpture. Recently, with a suitcase full of his own vibrant and striped canvases, Eather travelled to Alice Springs. There, Tjapaltjarri reacted to these backgrounds, painting his Tingari forms, which are distinct interpretations of Pintupi ceremonial men’s designs. For over 30 years, Walala has been developing his own unique take on classic Tingari designs. He chooses his own colours, constructing spontaneous arrangements of Tingari that contrast Eather’s linear backgrounds. Sometimes they clash. Sometimes they harmonize. The resulting forms are minimalist and bold; metaphysical landscapes that bring ancient symbols to the here and now. Walala and Michael’s collaborative process reflects a dynamic relationship between artists and friends.