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 | Born: 1982 Language Group: Anmatyerre Country: Waramungu, North of Alice Springs Medium: Acrylic on Canvas and Linen Subjects: Awelye (Women's Ceremony and Body Paint Designs), Leaves |
Esther and her brother Preston were brought up by their grandmother Gloria Petyarre (deceased). On reaching school age, Esther attended Alekareng (Warrabri) School, living with her father's relatives during school term and living with Gloria during holiday periods in the Utopia Region. It was during her time spent in Utopia that she learned her skills as an artist, often assisting other family members with their paintings.
Esther began painting for herself when she was only 16 years old. The story for her paintings always centering on the women's stories. Esther's first paintings for Mbantua Gallery were in 1999. Esther lives in Alice Springs with her family.
Collections
Mbantua Gallery Permanent Collection, Alice Springs
Linear designs in Esther's painting represent Awelye (Women's Ceremony and Body Paint Designs). These designs are painted onto the chest, breasts, arms and thighs. Powders ground from red and yellow ochre (clays), charcoal and ash are used as body paint and applied with a flat stick with soft padding. The women sing the songs associated with their Awelye as each woman takes her turn to be 'painted-up'.
