Community: Fregon
Art Centre: Kaltjiti Arts (Fregon, S.A.)
Area: APY Lands, South Australia
Born:
Biography:

Kaltjiti Arts is one of the nortnermost towns in South Australia.  It is situated 350km east of Uluru, 500km south-west of Alice Springs and 1100km north of Adelaide.  The community in Fregon is home to approximately 250 people.

Art and craft has been a part of the Kaltjiti community from its establishment since the early 1960's.  The first arts co-ordinator was Diana James who has just had a book published 'Painting the Song'.  Bev Peacock has been the art centre manager since 1990.

Kaltjiti Arts is an indigenous owned art centre.  The proceeds of the artworks go directly back to the artists and the art centre.

The original 'walka' style - highly patterned and multi coloured style with imaginative imagery has evolved to include greater conceptual definition.

There remains, hoever, a constant factor that continues to inspire and influence the artwork.  Traditional aboriginal culture and the strong connection artists have with their traditional country, continues to inform and direct their artwork.  An example of this is in the use of imagery that directly relates to body paiting used for traditional dance (inma).

As custodians of thier culture, these artists have particular significance.  Through their traditional and contemporary art, they continue to pass on their culture.

During the 1990's painting on canvas became a popular medium.  Kaltjiti Arts together with a small family owned traditional handicraft workshop in Srinigar, Kashmir, have a unique 'cross cultural' collaboration producing exceptional quality, handmade rugs, wall hangings and cushion covers.

Some Kaltjiti Artists include, Tali Tali Pompey, Marita Baker, KaMantuwa George, Robin Kankapankantja, Iwana Ken, Kathy Maringka, Manyiritjanu Lennon, Matjangka Norris, Tjayangka Robin, Rita Rolley, Anyupa Treacle, Inawinytji Williamson, Kanytjupai Robin (artist of 'walka' image on right!)