ADA BIRD PETYARRE

Ada Bird Petyarre was a pioneering figure in the Utopia art movement, beginning her practice in the late 1970s with the Utopia Women’s Batik Group. Her batik work gained national recognition, featuring on the cover of Utopia - A Picture Story (A. Brody, 1990). In 1988, she transitioned to acrylic painting during CAAMA’s Summer Project, continuing until 2004.

Ada was best known for her bold, linear works representing Awelye (women’s ceremonial body paint designs), particularly those connected to the Arnkerrthe (Mountain Devil Lizard) Dreaming of Atnangkere and Ahalkere Country. Her vibrant personality shone through her art, always expressive, colourful, and unapologetically honest.

Her work is held in major collections around the world. As a respected senior Anmatyerre woman, she helped shape the legacy of Utopia art alongside her sisters, known collectively as the Seven Petyarre Sisters. Ada’s artistic lineage continues through her children and grandchildren, many of whom are artists today.