04/09/2026
As you enter the ABT store you are greeted by this magnificent piece by Napurrurla Jinjilngali (Molly Tasman), titled Janganpa - Rock Wallaby Dreaming, from Warnayaka Art - Lajamanu.
Napurrurla Jinjilngali was born and lived much of her early life travelling across the Tanami Desert. She spent time at Kurlpurlunu, Mt Doreen Station, Yarturlu Yarturlu and Yurrampi, before her family was trucked to Lajamanu as part of the government relocation program in the early 1950s.
Napurrurla was passionate about Warlpiri culture and dedicated to preserving its knowledge for future generations. She taught bilingual education at Lajamanu School and later helped reopen Warnayaka Art. Her artwork became highly respected by her peers and collectors.
Napurrurla also shared stories of the impact of the Second World War on Warlpiri people and their Country. She spoke about the army travelling onto her traditional lands, around the area where the Newmont gold mine at The Granites is now located, and taking men away to work as labourers. Some men were hidden in mine shafts, while many others were taken east, walking approximately 200 kilometres towards Tennant Creek to work on infrastructure for the war effort.
Her extensive grain fields are located just north-west of the mine site and can still be seen from the Lajamanu Road. The grain fields remain today, with trees growing up through them.
Napurrurla’s art is a statement about her Country, Warlpiri life and a time when people lived freely on their lands. Her paintings reflect the desert landscapes and Jukurrpa (Dreaming) stories she travelled through and carried with her throughout her life.
Napurrurla’s paintings continue to carry an important legacy for Warlpiri people.
Her work has been exhibited across Australia and internationally since 1992. She was also a finalist in the 2008 and 2011 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA).
