Sam Tjampitjin b. c.1930

  • Artist (Painter)
Sam had been painting with Warlayirti Artists since the early 1990's. His paintings are strong, with bold colours and designs. His paintings reflect his knowledge as a senior lawman and his connection with the land and associated rainmaking rituals.

Born c. 1930 “in the bush”, on the north-west side of Lake Mackay, Sam Tjampitjin was a Kukatja speaker. His Dreamings were Tingari and Water, and his traditional country was the site of Lanta-lanta, the area north-west of Lake Mackay. The artist had only been painting for Warlayirti Artists since early 1990. His works impressed with their strong, bold colours and design. Coming from a senior person in Men’s Law, these images presumably speak from the deep well-springs of the artist’s knowledge and experience. All his works communicate something of the artist’s sense of the power of the land. Many deal with Water Dreaming and associated rainmaking rituals.

Writers:
Johnson, Vivien
Date written:
1994
Last updated:
2011