Water Dreaming, 2004 by Julie Nangala Robertson 198x61cm

"Pirlinyanu Site - Water Dreaming, 2004" by Julie Nangala Robertson beautifully illustrates her Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming), associated with her father’s traditional country of Pirlinyanu. This rocky outcrop in the Tanami Desert, west of Yuendumu towards the WA border, is notable for its significant waterholes and plentiful bush tucker.

Pirlinyanu is one of many important locations for the Water Dreaming. Those familiar with the land know which rocks to move to access fresh water in the deep, naturally occurring wells of Pirlinyanu. Without this knowledge, the desert landscape might seem devoid of water.

Julie uses an aerial perspective and a distinctive monochromatic palette to achieve extraordinary optical brilliance in her paintings. Her mastery of dot painting creates specific shapes and reference points, enhancing the visual depth of her work. This artistic excellence earned her the Best Painting category award at the Telstra Aboriginal Art Award in August 2023.

Julie, the eldest of five daughters of Dorothy Napangardi Robinson, recently changed the spelling of her surname from Robinson to Robertson. She believes her father, Windy, misspelled their surname, and she now aligns with her relatives in Yuendumu who use Robertson.