Barney Campbell Tjakamarra

Barney Campbell Tjakamarra: Esteemed Pintupi Law-Man and Influential Artist

Barney Campbell Tjakamarra, born circa 1928 at Kaylilwarra near Warburton in the Gibson Desert of Western Australia, is a revered member of the Ngaanyatjarra language group and a prominent Pintupi law-man. Raised by relatives after his parents' death, Barney’s traditional upbringing and cultural immersion shaped his influential role in Aboriginal art and law.

Early Life and Cultural Background

• Born: Circa 1928 at Kaylilwarra, south of Warburton, Gibson Desert, Western Australia
• Language Group: Ngaanyatjarra
• Cultural Role: Pintupi Law-Man and respected elder

Barney’s uncle took him to Papunya, where he underwent traditional initiation rites and became a man. His upbringing was deeply rooted in a traditional lifestyle, and he emerged as a proud and confident ambassador for his people.

Artistic Journey and Contributions In the 1970s, Barney was a founding member of the Papunya Tula art movement, which played a crucial role in the contemporary Aboriginal art scene. His artworks depict the Tingari Cycle stories, sacred creation stories integral to the teachings of initiated youth. These stories, centered around the Lake MacDonald region, detail the epic journeys of the Tingari Men and Women during the Dreamtime (Tjukurrpa).

Artistic Style and Legacy Barney’s paintings are characterized by intricate sinuous lines and a series of roundels that evoke ceremonial body designs and traditional ground drawings. His works are a testament to the 'classical' Pintupi style, portraying his 'dreamings' with meticulous precision. Often working alongside fellow artist Willy Tjungurrayi, Barney's commitment to his craft and cultural heritage is evident in every piece.

While painting at Gallery Gondwana Studios, Barney would immerse himself in the ritual of his creation stories, often heard singing in his native language by the staff.

Personal Life Barney married Maisie Campbell Napaltjarri, an artist herself, and together they had four children. His connection to his land, which spans 150 km around the Lake MacDonald region, and his dedication to preserving and sharing his culture, make Barney Campbell Tjakamarra a significant figure in the Aboriginal art community.

Key Highlights

• Country: Lake MacDonald region, encompassing salt lakes and wells around Kintore
• Art Movement: Founding member of the Papunya Tula art movement
• Art Style: Sinuous lines, roundels, ceremonial body designs, traditional ground drawings
• Family: Married to Maisie Campbell Napaltjarri, with four children

Barney Campbell Tjakamarra’s profound impact on Aboriginal art and culture continues to be celebrated, with his works and teachings preserving the rich traditions and stories of his people.