Minnie Pwerle, one of Australia’s most important indigenous artists, was an Alyawarre woman born in the Utopia region in the early 1920s. Minnie did not start painting until late in 1999 - presented with canvases, she began to paint a series of bold, vibrant and free flowings linear works. Her first finished pieces became an instant success and quickly captured the attention of prominent gallery owners.

Minnie was a custodian for her country and her stunning artwork pays homage to her Dreamings, country and ancestors. She draws on an ancient cultural tradition that has used visual gestures and pigments in body painting, rock art and sand painting to express connection to country for thousands of years. Minnie’s canvases sing with indigenous wisdom and contemporary verve. She continued to paint remarkable artworks until her passing in 2006.

We are honoured to have had the opportunity to translate the work of Minnie Pwerle into a range of seven handmade rugs, and to give back to Minnie’s family and community through royalties to this day. The Atnwengerrp (Land of Dreamings) collection is a depiction of the patterns and designs painted on the top half of the women's bodies during awelye, traditional women’s ceremonies. The collection showcases Minnie's energetic brush strokes and bold use of colour.