142-25 – Purkitji – ANGIE TOPSY TCHOOGA

Artist : ANGIE TOPSY TCHOOGA
Title : Purkitji
Size/Medium : 610 x 457mm: acrylic on linen Painting

Biography :

Angie is a steady and vibrant presence in the community of Balgo, a woman whose roots stretch deep into the land of the Tjaru people. Born at Sturt Creek Station, Angie was raised by the elders, who guided her in the ways of the land, culture, and tradition. She attended school at the Old Balgo Mission, and after finishing her education, returned to Sturt Creek to work as a domestic, a role that allowed her to stay connected to her country and community. During this time, she fondly recalls taking the children on bush trips, teaching them the ways of the land.

It was at Sturt Creek that Angie met her husband, Jimmy, and together they made their way to Balgo to marry. Their union, a partnership that began in 1972, has blessed them with five sons, one daughter, and many grandchildren. Jimmy and Angie often migrated between Sturt Creek and Balgo, until the illness of one of their sons led them to settle permanently in Balgo, where they could be closer to the clinic.

Though Angie has lived in Balgo for nearly 20 years, her heart still carries the memory of Sturt Creek, the land she calls home. Yet, she continues to visit her country, hunting and fishing, keeping the connection alive.

Angie’s journey as an artist began in 1988, and her work often reflects the beauty of the waterlilies and the spiritual significance of the Tjurrkupa snake.

Together with her husband Jimmy, Angie forms a creative force that is both harmonious and powerful. While Jimmy’s bold, sweeping lines define the structure of their paintings, Angie complements this with delicate, intricate dotting, creating works that are both strong and balanced. Their collaboration has become a symbol of their deep bond, both as partners in life and art.

About this painting :

Angie has painted some of her country which is located around Purkitji (Sturt Creek). Depicted in Angie’s painting is the Sturt Creek river as seen by the three joining circles. Angie says this is good place for hunting and fishing. This place is very good for Pinyani (water lillies). To get the water lily you have to swim under water dig at the roots and collect the plant.

Angie says that Pinyani is sweet and juicy and it tastes like apples and it’s the culture that her Tja Tja (grandmother), Nungurrayi, taught her as she grew her up.