Ruth Bates Pirrnku, Tali. 2020. 500mm x 500mm. Acrylic on cardboard. Warakurna Artists. (#102-20)

Ruth Bates is the daughter of Kayili artist Manupa Butler (dec). Ruth grew up in Patjarr and paints the rockholes, country and dreamtime Tjukurrpa associated with Patjarr and the Gibson Desert. In addition to painting, Ruth is an active weaver and artefact maker, and is known for her skillful carving.

Tali is the local Ngaanyatjarra word for sandhills. This painting was a working design, and while it might not have been reproduced in a tee, it is an important document for the project and design process. Artists will work on a number of designs before final designs are chosen for reproduction.

The Ngurra Streetwear Project was initiated in 2014 in response to artists and directors request to design fashion within the community. Working with graphic designer, Jack Searls, each year we host a week-long intensive design workshop to create aesthetic elements that are new and original. Participants use paint, textas and photography to create a host of imagery from around the community, which are then workshopped to create the best images for screen printing as well as creating a design direction for the overall project.

The workshops include photography, collage and digital manipulation using design software. Participants then made the final designs print ready and worked out costing, sizes and market development.