Dorothy Pwerle

Dorothy Jones Pwerle is an Alyawarre artist born in 1953 at Atnwengerrp, in the Utopia region of Central Australia. She comes from a strong lineage of artists and is part of the Pwerle family, whose work has played a significant role in the development of the Utopian art movement.

Dorothy began painting in the early 2000s, drawing on her cultural knowledge and personal connection to country. Her work primarily explores themes of Awelye (women’s ceremony), Women’s Dreaming, and the collection of bush foods, such as Imuna (native bush foods) and Akarley (wild oranges). These elements hold great cultural importance and reflect the stories, ceremonies, and knowledge passed down through generations of women in her community.

Her paintings are known for their intricate dot work, rhythmic lines, and vibrant use of colour, often reflecting ceremonial body paint designs and the seasonal patterns of the landscape. Each piece is a visual celebration of women’s cultural roles and the deep connection between people and country.

Dorothy’s work has been exhibited in galleries across Australia and internationally. Her paintings are held in private and institutional collections, and she remains a respected voice within the contemporary Aboriginal art world.

Dorothy Jones Pwerle’s art speaks to both tradition and creativity, preserving ancient stories while expressing them in a uniquely modern way.