Pirlinyanu Site - Water Dreaming, 2011 by Julie Nangala Robertson, 61x198cm Cat 14274JR

"Pirlinyanu Site - Water Dreaming, 2011" by Julie Nangala Robertson masterfully depicts her Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming), associated with her father’s traditional country of Pirlinyanu. This rocky outcrop in the Tanami Desert, west of Yuendumu and near the WA border, is crucial for its waterholes and abundant bush tucker.

Pirlinyanu is a significant location for the Water Dreaming because those with traditional knowledge can access fresh water in the deep, naturally occurring wells by moving specific rocks. Without this knowledge, the desert landscape might seem devoid of water. Ownership of this country is passed down patrilineally, while ritual knowledge is transmitted from aunt to niece, specifically within the Nampijinpa and Nangala sub-section groups.

Using an aerial perspective and a distinctive monochromatic palette, Julie’s paintings achieve extraordinary optical brilliance. She alternates dot sizes and builds specific shapes or reference points through repeated dotting, creating a dynamic and intricate depiction of the landscape.

Julie Nangala Robertson was awarded the Best Painting category at the Telstra Aboriginal Art Award in 2023. She recently changed the spelling of her surname to Robertson to align with her relatives in Yuendumu, correcting a misspelling by her father, Windy, who had two wives: Rene Napangardi Robinson and Dorothy Napangardi Robinson, Julie's mother.