It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Walala Tjapaltjarri, who passed away on August 4.
Walala was an extraordinary artist and a significant figure in the history of contemporary Australian Indigenous art. Together with his brothers Warlimpirrnga and Thomas Tjapaltjarri, Walala was part of the group that became internationally known as the Pintupi Nine, a family whose remarkable story stands at the intersection of ancient Pintupi culture and modern Australia.
Beyond this extraordinary history, Walala developed a distinctive artistic practice of his own. His paintings, rooted in Pintupi traditions, brought his cultural heritage to audiences far beyond Australia and contributed to the international recognition of Aboriginal Australian art.
We remember Walala not only for his important artistic legacy, but also as the kind and gentle person described by those who knew and worked with him. His passing follows the recent loss of his brother Thomas, while their older brother Warlimpirrnga remains an important living figure in Australian art.
Our thoughts are with Walala’s family and community. We honour his life, his work and the lasting contribution he and his family have made to Australian art and culture.
