Tjanpi Desert Weavers

Tjanpi Desert Weavers, a social enterprise founded in 1995, is a remarkable and inspiring art centre located in the Central and Western desert regions of Australia. It is an initiative of the NPY Women’s Council, created to empower Indigenous women through art. This initiative has grown into a dynamic, artist-driven community, with over 400 Aboriginal women artists from 26 remote communities engaged in creating stunning, culturally rich fibre art.

The long-term reputation of Tjanpi (meaning ‘grass’) Desert Weavers is built on its dedication to maintaining the cultural integrity and traditional techniques of the Indigenous communities it represents. These artists use locally sourced materials like grass, seeds, and feathers to create an array of woven artworks, including baskets, sculptures, and installations. Each piece is a reflection of the artist’s connection to the land and their cultural heritage, often telling stories or depicting elements of the Dreamtime, the central theme in Indigenous Australian mythology.

In recent years, Tjanpi Desert Weavers has gained international acclaim, showcasing contemporary Aboriginal art that pushes the boundaries of traditional weaving techniques. Their work has been exhibited in major Australian art institutions and globally. These exhibitions highlight the innovative and evolving nature of Indigenous art and provide a platform for the artists to share their stories and perspectives with a broader audience.

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is more than an art centre; it is a vital community hub that nurtures the artistic, cultural, and economic well-being of Indigenous women. Through their art, these women keep their cultural practices alive and provide an invaluable contribution to the global understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Australian art. The centre’s commitment to cultural preservation, along with its embrace of contemporary expression, makes it a unique and important voice in the world of Aboriginal art.

Phone: (08) 8958 2377
Email: tjanpi.reception@npywc.org.au
Meet The Artists: https://tjanpi.com.au/pages/artists
Access: The gallery is open 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday.