'The master from Marnpi' with biographer Alec O’Halloran

Join the MAC Society as they host Dr Alec O’Halloran, authorised biographer for master artist Namarari from Marnpi. Dr O'Halloran will provide the background story of the artist, a Q and A session and book signing.

About this event

Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri (c1923-1998) was a Pintupi man from the Western Desert who became an award-winning Papunya Tula artist. This authorised biography, 'The master from Marnpi', reveals his fascinating life story and illuminates his extraordinary art career spanning three decades. The book is ideal for admirers of Namarari’s art, for those wishing to know more about contemporary Aboriginal art, for those with an interest in Aboriginal lives and voices, and for all who love beautiful books.

As a Papunya Tula artist, Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri received widespread recognition, including the National Aboriginal Art Award, the Alice Prize, and the Red Ochre Award, for which he was the inaugural recipient. He is the only artist to receive all three awards. Significantly, 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of Papunya Tula.

'The master from Marnpi' traces Namarari’s journey as a child, adult, and old man, and his many roles, as stockman, traveller, artist, family leader, cultural advocate and community member.

The hard cover book has 238 illustrations, including 75 artworks. It features a map, tables, glossary, bibliography, and comprehensive notes with a catalogue raisonné.

Copies of 'The master from Marnpi' by Dr Alec O'Halloran will be available for purchase on the day from shop MAC for $80.

The author will sign copies, and has generously decided to contribute a portion of each sale to MAC Society's fundraising in support of artworks for MAC yapang.

Event Schedule

10:30 – Presentation by author Dr Alec O'Halloran

11:15 - Q&A session

11:30 - Book signing and opportunity to meet fellow attendees

Tickets

MAC Society members $8

General Admission $10

Attendees wishing to have lunch at MAC yapang's Three Bears Café after the event should enquire with the cafe and make a reservation to avoid missing out (tel. 0447 332 148).

When

Location

Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie, 1A First Street, Booragul, 2284, View in Google Maps