Abie Loy Kemarre

Abie Loy Kemarre, the eldest of five children, was born to Margaret Loy Pula and Ray Loy Pula in 1972 in Utopia, about 270 kilometres northeast of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. She belongs to the Anmatyerre language group, and her country is Ilyentye (or Ahalpere) in the Utopia region. Abie comes from a distinguished lineage of artists. Her mother, Margaret Loy Pula, won the Wynne Prize in 2012. Her grandmother, Kathleen Petyarre (dec), was a respected senior artist, and her aunt, Gloria Petyarre (dec), was a celebrated artist. Both Kathleen and Gloria were a part of the renowned seven Petyarre sisters.

Abie began her artistic journey around 1994, under the mentorship of her grandmother Kathleen Petyarre. Kathleen played a crucial role in guiding Abie's early development as an artist. She taught Abie the intricate methodologies of dot painting, emphasising the use of fine dotwork to create detailed designs and complex optical effects. Abie's bolder, thick- lined creations are initially formed using wider paint brushes. She then meticulously outlines these bold designs with her signature fine dotwork, creating a striking contrast and adding intricate detail to each piece. To create her fine dotwork pieces, Abie uses bottles of paint topped with fine needles, applying each dot with meticulous care and patience. It is a mesmerising process to watch as the artwork takes shape, gradually building into a creation that vividly reflects Abie's imaginative vision.

Abie's talent and dedication have earned her recognition in the art world. She was a finalist in the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award (NATSIAA) in 1997 and 2001, showcasing her work among Australia's best Indigenous artists. Her artworks are held in major collections worldwide, attesting to her international acclaim. Her Batik works have been exhibited in Bali, while her canvas and linen paintings have been displayed in prominent galleries across Australia, including Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne, as well as in various international venues.

Born 1972
Language Group Anmatyerre
Country Ilyentye (or Ahalpere)
Utopia Region, N E of Alice Springs
Medium Acrylic on canvas and linen Batik on silk
Subject(s) Bush Medicine Leaf, Bush Turkey, Akatyerre (desert raisin or bush tomato), Awelye (women’)