Lot 57

Work in very good condition overall. Upon very close inspection, minor white pigment marks are apparent (unknown if inherent). Canvas is stretched with no additional framing.
(LEONARD JOEL DELIVERY SIZE: EXTRA LARGE)


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Papunya Tula Artists, Alice Springs (accompanied by a certificate of authenticity)
Private collection, Melbourne

Joining Papunya Tula as the youngest member of the group, Turkey Tolson Tjupurrula rapidly distinguished himself as one of the most respected and influential artists of the Papunya Tula movement. Born near Ikuntji (Haasts Bluff) about 200km west of Mparntwe (Alice Springs), his family regularly moved between Papunya and the Kungkayurnti outstation.

Tolson's Straightening Spears 1999 is from a later series of works that followed the death of his father. Following these newly inherited family responsibilities, Tolson began to approach his story telling by focusing on just one aspect of the journeys associated with his country. Along with Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri, Turkey Tolson became a key influencer at Papunya Tula being one of the first artists to experiment with abstract minimalism. Tolson is now recognised for his minimalist linear aesthetic, as well as his highly energised abstract imagery to communicate his ancestral narratives.

Straightening Spears 1999 relates to a large group of men from Mitukatjirri who travelled through Tjukula from Ilyingaungau, a rocky outcrop, where they were confronted by a battle with men from the north. After this battle, the men returned home to their families and incorporated this experience into their ceremonies to pass onto the younger generation.

Turkey Tolson was the longest serving Chairman at Papunya Tula Artists. His fluent English skills enabled him to become a spokesman for Papunya Tula, acting as liaison between the group's elders and the outside community. Several of Turkey Tolson's works are now held at the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide, and have been featured in major exhibitions including Papunya Tula: Out of the Australian Desert at the National Museum of Australia, Canberra, in 2010.

Lucy Foster
Art Specialist