Judy Watson
Judy Napangardi Watson was born in 1935 at Yarungkanji, Mt Doreen Station, at a time when many Warlpiri and other Central and Western Desert peoples lived a traditional nomadic life. With her family, Judy made many trips on foot to her Country, living for extended periods at Mina Mina and Yingipurlangu, on the border of the Tanami and Gibson Deserts.
Judy was taught to paint by her elder sister, Maggie Napangardi Watson. Although a small woman, Judy had ten children, three of whom she outlived. Her incredible energy was transmitted through her work, expressed in her dynamic use of colour and distinctive dragged dotting style.
Judy was at the forefront of a movement toward more abstract interpretations of Jukurrpa in Warlpiri painting, while retaining strong kurruwarri — the sacred markings that expressed place, story, and song.