Marruwa, 2005 by Mitjili Napanangka Gibson, 91x122cm
Marruwa, 2005 by Mitjili Napanangka Gibson, 91 x 122 cm
Marruwa (2005) by Mitjili Napanangka Gibson is a striking depiction of ancestral journeys across the Western Desert. This painting captures the movement of family groups travelling between sacred sites in the Marruwa area, a soakage(a natural water source) located west of Janyinki and east of Mina Mina.
Mitjili describes Marruwa as a place of significance to her father and her family, distinct from the Marruwa located on the southwest side of Wilkinkarra (Lake Mackay), which belongs to Walala and Walimpirri Tjapaltjarri. In this artwork, she portrays the tracks of her family members as they moved across the landscape, often camping during their arduous foot journeys over sandhills, heading towards what is now known as Kiwirrkurra community.
Mitjili Napanangka Gibson: A Legacy in Art and Film
Born in Winparrku in the Western Desert in 1932, Mitjili Napanangka Gibson (1932–2011) was a highly respected Indigenous Australian artist and actress. She began painting after watching her niece, Dorothy Napangardi, who was already an acclaimed artist. Mitjili’s distinct artistic style quickly gained recognition, with her works featured at the 2007 Melbourne and Sydney Art Fairs. In 2009, she was shortlisted for the prestigious Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award, further cementing her status as an important contemporary Indigenous artist.
Beyond her success in visual art, Mitjili was also celebrated for her contributions to Australian cinema. She played Delilah’s Nana in Warwick Thornton’s award-winning film Samson and Delilah (2009), a performance that earned her a nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 2009 AFI Awards. She had previously starred in Thornton’s short film Nana, where she played the title role.
A Lasting Cultural and Artistic Influence
Mitjili Napanangka Gibson’s paintings remain highly sought after, celebrated for their bold compositions, intricate storytelling, and deep spiritual connection to Country. Through her art and film performances, she left a powerful legacy, ensuring that the sacred Dreaming stories of the Western Desert continue to be shared and honoured for generations to come