Coquitlam Public Library

Painting Country

videorecording

Painting Country

921953535

Originally produced by Electric Pictures in 2000

52

Balgo Hills or Wirrimanu is located on the edge of the Tanami and Great Sandy Deserts in far North Western Australia. Despite its isolation this is home to some of Australia's most famous indigenous artists whose paintings hang in galleries and private collections around the world. Balgo art is famous for its hot bright colours, bold composition and creative brush techniques. Its origins lie in the traditional designs done in sand and body paintings. But in less than 20 years it has evolved into one of the most innovative movements of modern art in Australia. The Balgo artists draw their inspiration from their deep spiritual connection with the land. But none of these artists live in the land they paint. Most were born deep in the desert where they lived a nomadic life until the impact of white settlement forced them to seek sanctuary in missions such as Balgo. It's been decades since these artists have seen their country. And as many are getting old it's time to go back. Painting Country?follows a journey back to the traditional country of ten of Balgo's most celebrated artists - including Tjumpo Tjapanangka, Lucy Yukenbarri, Helicopter Tjungurrayi and Sam Tjampitjin. Along with the two art coordinators from Warlayirti Artists, the Aboriginal artists travel through some of Australia's most remote desert landscapes on tracks that have not been used for many years. Their journey takes them as far as spectacular Lake Mackay and onto Jupiter Well deep in the Gibson Desert. The film intimately portrays the life and humour of the indigenous artists. It reveals why they had to leave their country and why their relationship to the land is still fundamental to their existence. Director:?Sally Ingleton Awards: Silver Chris Award, Best Overall in Arts Division, 2001 Columbus International Film and Video Festival. Finalist, Best Documentary, 2001 International Electronic Cinema Festival (Japan)

live action