Helicopter Tjungarrayi: A Solo Exhibition

21 July - 17 August 2016

In 1957 as a small child Helicopter Tjungarrayi left the desert for the first time in a mining helicopter at the behest of his brother because he was very sick. His story is now an important part of Australia's story and informing an element of the National Gallery of Australia's collection. It has also become a well known part of Kimberley folk lore. The story is the foundation of his name and his journey was the impetus for his community to make the trek to Balgo. Helicopter still lives there today and has been an advocate and painter since the 1990's. Helicopter's continued art practice and commitment to reinterpreting his traditional country on canvas has turned him into the senior artist he is today. His artwork is typically the fire colours of the desert, tracking the sand hills and waterholes that are so important to desert living. Helicopter's paintings and story have a resonance, strength and longevity that speak of his pride in country, men's law, his place as a marpan man (healer) and as an important senior artist. Short St Gallery is proud through our long association with Helicopter to present this solo exhibition which commemorates his work over the years and his place as an important Australian artist. The exhibition opens July 21 at 6pm, Helicopter will be in attendance  to celebrate. All are welcome.