Kathy Maringka Roberts
Kathy Maringka Roberts, born around 1954 near Ernabella on the APY Lands, is a Pitjantjatjara woman and a respected leader in her community. Raised in the Ernabella mission, she later moved to Victory Downs, a cattle station, and worked as a Cultural Tour Guide at Uluru, sharing her knowledge with visitors. Kathy returned to Ernabella to marry Johnny Roberts, with whom she has five children and numerous grandchildren.
Her artistic journey began in Ernabella, where she learned sewing, wool spinning, and rug-making at the art center. In the 1970s, Kathy and her family moved to Fregon, where she mastered batik techniques and painting with acrylics. Known for her depictions of Tjulpun-tjulpunpa (Desert Wildflowers), Kathy’s art is celebrated for its vibrant and complex designs.
Kathy played a significant role in the community as Chairperson of the Fregon Community Council and served on the board of Kaltjiti Arts. Her leadership is quiet yet strong, and her work reflects the unique artistic style of Fregon, known as walka . This style, rooted in the traditional practice of creating "meaningful marks or patterns," evolved from batik to painting, and remains a signature of Kaltjiti artists today.