Ode to Country
Three Painters
23 March – 21 April 2024
Adrian Jangala Robertson
Lance James
Idris Murphy
Curated by Dallas Gold & Catherine Benz in conjunction with Bindi Mwerre Anthurre Artists, Mparntwe/Alice Springs
This exhibition presents recent paintings and works on paper by Warlpiri artist, Adrian Jangala Robertson, in dialogue with paintings by Pitjantjatjara artist Lance James and Sydney artist Idris Murphy.
Robertson and James share studio space at Bindi Mwerre Anthurre Artists in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, an assisted studio for Aboriginal artists with disabilities. Murphy has been a keen follower of Robertson’s work for the past two decades.
A sense of drama and vitality links their work, with country the central presence and theme.
James’ joyous paintings of Kaltukatjara (country surrounding Docker River) nostalgically recall station days, with spirited horses embodying freedom. Robertson paints from memory his mother’s country, Yalpirakinu, located north of Papunya where he was born. For him, country is family, and his paintings are profound expressions of longing and belonging. Murphy’s plein air paintings of country east of Mparntwe/Alice Springs express yearning for connection through intuitive response.
Adrian Jangala Robertson and Lance James are represented by Bindi Mwerre Anthurre Artists. Idris Murphy is represented in Warrane/Sydney by King Street Gallery on William.
Exhibition reception and floor talk
Sunday 7 April 2pm – 4pm (talk at 2.30pm)
with exhibiting artist Idris Murphy
Adrian Jangala Robertson, Yalpirakinu 2023
Idris Murphy, Dry Riverbed at the Seven Sisters, Ross River 2024, acrylic on aluminium, 51 x 141cm
