Tjanpi Desert Weaver Sculpture: Tinka (Lizard) by Imiyari (Yilpi) Frank
53cmL x 14cmW x 20cmH
Tjanpi Desert Weavers operates as a social enterprise under the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Women’s Council, engaging women in the remote Central and Western desert regions to generate income through contemporary fibre art. The term "Tjanpi," meaning grass in Pitjantjatjara language, symbolizes the collaboration of over 400 Anangu/Yarnangu women artists hailing from 26 distant communities across the NPY lands.
These skilled Tjanpi artists utilize native grasses to craft remarkable contemporary fibre art, skillfully weaving intricate baskets and sculptures that showcase boundless creativity and ingenuity. Rooted in the traditional art of making manguri rings, the practice of working with fibre has evolved into an integral aspect of Central and Western desert culture.
"Imiyari (Yilpi) Adamson was born in Ernabella in 1954. She has worked with batik for many years - with several works in public collections. She is also renowned as an expert mukata (beanie) maker. Imiyari has only recently begun to experiment with ceramics, paintings, fibre art and sculpture. Together with four other Tjanpi artists, she attended a workshop at Brisbane foundry Urban Art Projects in June 2008. The sculptural animals and birds she produced during this time have a consistent lively and engaging quality. Imiyari is currently the Anangu Mayatja (manager) of Ernabella Arts."