Gloria Petyarre RIP
Posted by Tim Jennings, Mbantua Gallery on 2021 Jun 09th
I and everyone here at Mbantua Gallery were saddened to hear of the death of our friend and prominent Australian Aboriginal artist of many years, Gloria Tamerre Petyarre who passed away on June 8, 2021 in Alice Springs.
I first met Gloria way back in 1985 in Angkula Outstation some 200 kilometres north east of Alice Springs, and before nearby Mulga Bore was ever built. It was the same day that I also met Lindsay Bird, his late older brother Tommy and his wife the late Ada Bird. Neither Gloria, Lindsay or Ada painted at that time, although it wasn’t long before brushes, acrylic paint and canvas became part of their lives.
Gloria was ‘bush born’ (no records kept) around 1945, and was just a lovely human being. She touched the hearts of everyone that she met. She had a gorgeous smile and personality, and loved to sing her songs when relaxed and painting.
A truly great Australian, and a great Australian artist.
To those who knew Gloria, she will never be forgotten. RIP.
Tim Jennings