Altherrpe (meaning Claypan in Central and Eastern Arrernte) is a body of work sourced from claypan country in and around Mparntwe. Working with wild clay is a process of connecting with country through country. The works in this exhibition are a part of the contemporary continuation of an ancient cultural tradition that embodies the land and its story.

“My practice is a tangible and tactile way for me to understand and express my deepening relationship to community, culture and country. The creation of each of the works in this exhibition began with the act of acknowledging this relationship, by introducing myself to country before gathering, then going onto soaking, sifting, shaping and firing the clay. I would like to acknowledge and thank Traditional Owner Felicity Hayes, for her guidance and giving me permission to source this clay to share in this form.”

Lille Madden is a Northern Arrernte, Kalkadoon and Bundjalung emerging artist, living and working in Mparntwe. Her practice is inspired by and a reflection of the uniqueness of desert country. For many years Lille has been experimenting with different clay bodies, materials, firing, sourcing, building and throwing techniques and is drawn to natural materials which have become central to her practice. For over a decade, Lille has worked in conservation, as a ranger in recent years, and is now part of the land management team at the Central Land Council, supporting women to care for country.

Acknowledgements:

Felicity Hayes

Mel Kean

Children’s Ground

Mel Robson

Alinta Rose

Tangentyere Artists

Mark Cole

Central Crafts

Yul Scarf

Watch This Space

Special thanks:

Hetti Perkins

Dylan River

Franky Gorey

Family and friends