Carol Puruntatameri

Carol Puruntatameri was born on March 21, 1959, in Wurrumiyanga (Bathurst Island). Her mother’s country is Jikilaruwu on Bathurst Island, and her father’s country is Yapalika on Melville Island. Her Dreaming is Jurrukuni (Owl). When she was 10, her family moved to her father's country at Pirlangimpi where she began engaging with Tiwi cultural traditions. Reflecting on her upbringing, Carol shared, “When old man, my father’s brother Justine Puruntatameri, did painting, he brought all us children and grandchildren to the Munupi Art Centre, teaching us to carry on.” She fondly remembers watching her father paint Pukumani poles and decorate his body during the Kulama ceremony. “Our fathers told all us girls, ‘Go down and cut sticks from mangroves to use in the ceremony.’” Carol’s artistic career began later in life. She explained, “I used to stay home gambling, but one day I came to the art centre and watched my uncle painting. I didn’t know how to paint. I started painting and painting, and I am here today, and I know how to paint.” Initially, Carol’s work replicated her father’s paintings, but over time, she developed her own style while continuing to incorporate storytelling, much like her father did. A passionate advocate for cultural preservation, Carol envisions a museum at the Munupi Art Centre to educate future generations and display Tiwi artifacts such as clap sticks and Tokoinga, a ball made from beeswax and feathers worn by men for ceremonies. “This is a family treasure,” she explained. Since joining Munupi Arts in 2010, Carol has gained recognition for her contributions to Tiwi art. In 2024, she was honored as a finalist for the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA), a testament to her dedication and talent. © Adrian Newstead