Maxie Tjampitjinpa

Maxie Tjampitjinpa was a distinguished Warlpiri artist, born around 1945 in Haasts Bluff (Ikuntji), Northern Territory. His father hailed from Watunuma in Warlpiri country, and his mother was of mixed Warlpiri/Luritja descent. In the late 1960s, his family relocated to Papunya so the children could attend school. Maxie later pursued further education at Nightcliff High School in Darwin and worked in various roles, including as a police tracker and tractor driver, before returning to Papunya in the early 1970s.

In 1980, Maxie began painting under the guidance of Mick Tjakamarra, a founding member of the Papunya Tula Artists collective. He quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach, earning the Northern Territory Art Award in 1984. By the mid-1980s, he had moved to Alice Springs, where he continued to develop his distinctive style.

Maxie's artworks are characterised by a unique 'flicked' painting technique, creating dynamic, all-over compositions that depart from traditional Western Desert iconography. His pieces often explore Dreamings such as the Flying Ant, Bushfire, and Women's Dreamings, reflecting his deep cultural knowledge and personal connection to his heritage.

Throughout his career, Maxie's works were exhibited nationally and internationally, and are held in major collections, including the Art Gallery of New South Wales. His contributions significantly influenced the evolution of contemporary Aboriginal art, and his legacy continues to inspire artists today.