Desmond Woodforde Australian, b. 1974

Desmond Woodforde is a multidisciplinary artist and truth-teller whose work spans

painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, music, and spoken word. A founding member

of the Mimili Maku Wati Group, Desmond’s practice is grounded in cultural authority

and political honesty – often poetic, always powerful.

His work is shaped by lived history and deep listening. Whether through hand-cut

prints, video installation, or sandblasted starlight onto metal, Desmond creates

evocative, emotionally charged narratives that speak across time – from the Ice Age

to nuclear testing, from ancient cosmology to today’s desert radio airwaves. His art

carries the stories of his people across media and generations, honouring the land,

the stars, and the legacy of resistance.

A finalist in the 2024 Fremantle Arts Centre Print Award, Desmond is also a longtime

presenter with PY Media (Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Media) and is currently

recording a new solo album. He plays an active cultural and political leadership role

in Mimili’s men’s group and was a leading voice for the celebrated exhibition of

experimental printmaking Kilipi Tjukurpa – Star Story at 8 Hele Gallery in Mpwartne

(Alice Springs) in July 2025.

Desmond’s video work Maralinga Story will be screened alongside the presentation

of partner Harriette Bryant’s practice at Sydney Contemporary 2025 – a shared act

of memory, testimony, and future-making.