313-25 – Purkitji – ANGIE TOPSY TCHOOGA

Artist : ANGIE TOPSY TCHOOGA
Title : Purkitji
Size/Medium : 610 x 457mm: acrylic on canvas 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 a piece of her Country, the land surrounding Purkitji (Sturt Creek), a place of deep connection and abundant life. Angie recalls this as a special place for hunting and fishing, where the land offers both nourishment and a sense of belonging.

One of the treasures of this land is Pinyani — the waterlily. To collect the Pinyani, one must swim beneath the surface, digging into the roots to unearth the plant. The waterlily, sweet and juicy, carries the taste of apples, a simple yet profound pleasure of the land. Angie remembers how her Tja Tja (grandmother), Nungurrayi, taught her the ways of this tradition, growing her up with the wisdom of the land, showing her how to gather and honour this sacred food.

Through Angie’s brush, the land and its teachings come to life — a story of connection, of culture, and of the timeless bond between the people and their Country.