Big River & Waterhole | GA-5837

DOB: c.1980

Birthplace: Darwin, NT

Skin name: Tjampitjinpa

Language: Anmatyerre

Community: Ti Tree, NT



Bevan Tjampitjinpa was born in Darwin and spent his childhood visiting his ancestral homeland. He completed his education in Darwin up to year 10 before relocating to Ti Tree, which is the country of his grandmother, grandfather, and mother. Following the impacts of the stolen generation, he eventually moved to live with his elders on the Anmatyerre Lands. For the next decade, he resided permanently with his elders, learning traditional practices and being initiated into the ceremonies and laws of the desert region. Bevan is fluent in Anmatyerre and possesses knowledge of traditional law, bush tucker, and hunting techniques for bush animals.

Encouraged to develop his own painting style, Bevan dedicated several years to mastering his technique. His paintings incorporate traditional symbols to reflect hunting narratives and women's hunting and gathering expeditions, portraying a contemporary account of his family's way of life. A central theme in Bevan's work is the waterhole, a crucial source of life in the harsh desert environment, around which life thrives and is frequently depicted in his paintings.

Bevan's artwork presents a captivating and educational narrative of his culture, family group, and the profound spirituality of his people. It highlights the diversity and depth of his heritage. His focus lies on hunting stories and the everyday life of his community, illustrating how they locate and gather food.