Angkwerrpme (Mistletoe)

Josepha Petrick Kemarre

1955

Arrernte (Aranda)

Atitjera (Harts Range), Utopia Region, North East of Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Acrylic on Canvas and Linen

Angkwerrpme (Mistletoe)

Josepha grew up at Santa Teresa, located approximately 80 km southeast of Alice Springs. Despite being surrounded by Western influences, she led a predominantly traditional life, engaging in activities like collecting bush foods and participating in customary ceremonies. After marrying her husband, Robin Petyarre (dec), the couple moved to Mt Swan in the Utopia region, about 270 km northeast of Alice Springs. Robin was the brother of renowned artist Gloria Petyarre. Together, they raised seven children and one of Josepha's nephews.

In 1990, Josepha ventured into painting, starting with acrylics on canvas. She has continued to develop her art, painting for various galleries across Australia. Her work primarily features the Bush Plum Dreaming from her father's country. The bush plum, a small, grape-like fruit that grows throughout Central Australia, is represented in her paintings through intricate dot work in hues of red, blue and orange, symbolising its various ripening stages.

Josepha's art has taken her to major Australian cities such as Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. Although she now divides her time between Alice Springs and Harts Range, she rarely visits Utopia, though some of her children still live there.

In June 2008, Josepha began painting for Mbantua Gallery. Her work continues to be a vibrant expression of her cultural heritage, with a focus on the Bush Plum Dreaming, showcasing her deep connection to her father's country.