Jimmy Ross Tjampitjinpa

Jimmy Ross Tjampitjinpa was a respected Pintupi artist born around 1949 in the remote bushland of Yinmi, located south of Kiwirrkura in Western Australia. He was the son of Nawipayi Tjangala and Manyinya Nungurrayi, and his sister, Kayi Kayi Nampitjinpa, was also an accomplished artist.

Tjampitjinpa began his artistic journey in the community of Balgo, possibly influenced by the visits of artist Anatjari Tjampitjinpa. In 1987, he relocated to Kiwirrkura, where he commenced painting for the renowned Papunya Tula Artists collective.

His artworks are characterised by earthy tones and intricate designs that map the pathways between waterholes, reflecting the significance of these sites in Dreamtime stories. Tjampitjinpa's paintings often depict Tingari narratives, which are central to the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Pintupi people.

Throughout his career, Tjampitjinpa's works were exhibited nationally and internationally, contributing to the broader recognition of Western Desert art. His paintings are held in various collections and have been featured in numerous exhibitions, underscoring his role in the evolution of contemporary Aboriginal art.