Her early style, characterised by concentric circles and dotted bands, evolved into mesmerising fields of tonal colours.
Wentja Morgan Napaltjarri's artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her cultural heritage and personal experiences. Born at Malparinga near Wilkinkarra, at the end of the second world war, she inherited a rich legacy from her father, Shorty Lungkata Tjungurrayi, a pivotal figure in the Papunya painting movement. Raised traditionally, her upbringing instilled in her a profound understanding of her people's rituals and knowledge. She was was seen by her community as not simply only a painter (and an exceptional one at that) but a custodian of law and an esteemed artist deeply connected to her heritage.
In Papunya, under her father's tutelage, Wentja began her artistic journey. Her early style, characterised by concentric circles and dotted bands, evolved into mesmerising fields of tonal colours. Central to her art is the depiction of significant rockholes, infused with the energy of intricate dots. While painting, she incorporates traditional songs and music, enriching her artworks with a deep and often profound cultural resonance.
In Papunya, under her father's tutelage, Wentja began her artistic journey. Her early style, characterised by concentric circles and dotted bands, evolved into mesmerising fields of tonal colours. Central to her art is the depiction of significant rockholes, infused with the energy of intricate dots. While painting, she incorporates traditional songs and music, enriching her artworks with a deep and often profound cultural resonance.