Walu, 2007 by Andrew Mitchell 119x87cm

"Walu, 2007" by Andrew Mitchell showcases his distinctive geometric patterns that reflect the desert sand dunes and linear patterns of the Central Desert landscape. Mitchell is a prominent artist at the Papulankutja Art Centre in Blackstone, part of the Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara, and Yankunytjatjara (NPY) lands.

The Papulankutja community, home to around 200 people, is situated in Western Australia’s Central Desert region, approximately 1500 kilometers east of Perth. Papulankutja was established in the 1970s after the Ngaanyatjarra people left the Warburton mission to return to their land. Papulankutja Artists was formed in 2001, becoming an incorporated entity in 2004, and opened their own Art Studio in 2009 after years of operating through the women’s center and community hall.

Born circa 1940 and a speaker of the Ngaanyatjarra language, Andrew Mitchell lives in Blackstone with his wife Angilya and their children. The Mitchell family are custodians of the country along Walu Road and around Illurpa. Andrew is also renowned for his wood crafts, adding to his artistic repertoire.