Bob Gibson, Warlurtu. 2018. Acrylic on canvas. 294.6cm x 177.8cm. Tjarlirli Art. (#18-1177KA)

Bob's painting represents Warlurtu (Lake Hopkins) in Western Australia, close to Tjukurla community. This large salt lake is also known as 'Marlu Kumpu'. It is a Tingarri site for wati (men) travelling from Walungurru in the Northern Territory. After
the rain there is a lot of kapi (water) and plenty of mayi (bush foods). 

Bob Gibson Tjungarrayi was born at Papaya in 1974, before moving with his family to Tjukurla community during the Papunya Tula movement of the 1980s, where many
Ngaanyatjarra people moved to be closer to their ancestral homelands. Bob's mother Mary Gibson, also a leading Tjarlirli artist, is from the country of Kulkurta, his father’s country was near Patjarr. Bob has been painting with Tjarlirli Art since 2007 and quickly found a unique rhythm and approach to painting; bold colours and an inimitable freedom, expressing ancient stories with contemporary flair. Bob is a vibrant character who is well loved within his community and offers support to many family members. He is a keen Sydney Swans supporter and loves listening to all music, especially the local bush bands.

Looking at a Bob Gibson painting feels a little like spending time with the artist himself. Bob’s bold, playful presence in the studio is contagious; each canvas brings wild shapes and expressive line met with decisive mark-making and confident realisation of country. His highly unique representations of tjukurpa are an intersection of traditional storytelling and a spirited contemporary artistic practice. This work is important as it speaks to the complex layers and tensions between cultural, historical and modern influences. 

Bob Gibson was a finalist in last years 36th Telstra NATSIAA awards in Darwin and previously a finalist also in 2013 and 2015. Bob's artwok is highly sort after by collectors across Australia and internationally. Bob's artworks have been exhibited across Australia extensively, recognised for his freedom of individuality in representing dreaming. Bob's artwork is a part of the collection at the Galley of Modern Art (GOMA) in Queensland.