Tingari Cycle, 1999 by Walala Tjapaltjarri, 92x92cm Cat 4106WT

"Tingari Cycle, 1999" by Walala Tjapaltjarri is a striking interpretation of Lake MacKay, featuring white and black rectangles set against a rich red background. This beautiful composition not only captivates the eye but also conveys profound cultural significance.

Walala's bold iconography represents a map of his homeland, Lake MacKay, viewed through a microscopic lens. This vast salt lake, located on the border of the Northern Territory and Western Australia, was home to Walala and his family, where they lived a fully traditional life until 1984. Their emergence from the desert that year made world headlines, earning them the title "The Last of the Nomads."

The painting captures events from the Tingari Cycle during the Creation Era, reflecting the spiritual and ancestral journeys that shaped the landscape. Walala's use of minimalistic yet powerful design elements brings these ancient stories to life, illustrating the sacred and enduring connection between the Pintupi people and their land.

"Tingari Cycle, 1999" stands as a testament to Walala Tjapaltjarri's artistic talent and his ability to blend traditional narratives with contemporary visual expression, preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of his people