Punuku Tjukurpa

Where the traditionaland the modern meet…

An exhibition celebrating the stories and Law of Anangu culture told through intricate carvings and artefacts, Punuku Tjukurpa is the first touring exhibition of artworks from the Maruku Arts archive based at Mutitjulu, near Uluru in the Northern Territory. Accompanying the exhibition is a bespoke mobile app to provide a deeper engagement

with the diverse works featured in Punuku Tjukurpa.

Presented by Artback NT, Punuku Tjukurpa is an exhibition showcasing a rich, sacred history and deserves national attention, as explained by LouisePartos, Executive Officer of Artback NT.

“Punuku Tjukurpa offers a privileged insight into one of Australia’s finest art movements and is an exhibition of national significance. Punu (carved objects made of wood) is a significant and prolific art form in Central Australia and its production and display are integral to the maintenance of culture and to the sharing of knowledge”, she said.

Ka pununganampa tjuta palya ananyi tjana nyakuntjaku.Wiru nyangatja. Tjana nyakula kulilpai alatji palyalpai munu memory tjutangananana Kanyilpai

“It is good that our carvings should go out to the world for all to see. This is a good thing. People can see and understand how things are made and that we have a lot of memories [in our collection].”

Artist Niningka Lewis, Punuku Tjukurpa

Artback NT’s first mobile app produced especially for the exhibition is an exciting addition to an already captivating show. An inclusive and dynamic way to introduce visitors to a very special exhibition, the app allows for more detailed interaction through audio descriptions of selected objects, a walking tour and educational activities. The Punuku Tjukurpa app reveals the creative role a modern technology can play in showcasing an exhibition that’s centred around traditional artwork, stories, techniques andprocesses.

Punuku Tjukurpa includes 88 punu objects, alongside sculptural works, 2D pieces and specially produced audio and video footage. Pieces in Punuku Tjukurpa include works made by three generations of artists for whom the tradition of wood carving and painting