Ester Haywook Petyarre

Esther Haywood represents the upcoming generation of Utopian artists, inheriting a rich artistic legacy as the granddaughter of the late Gloria Petyarre. She is a member of the Alyawarre language group and has affiliations with Atnangkere country in the Utopia region, approximately 230 kilometers northeast of Alice Springs.

Growing up surrounded by artists who conveyed ancient dreaming stories in a contemporary manner, Esther absorbed the cultural richness of her heritage. Her grandmother, Gloria Petyarre, played a pivotal role in imparting the songs, dances, and body paint designs that encapsulate the narratives of Atnangkere country. Esther's familial ties include notable figures such as the late Ada Bird Petyarre, Kathleen Petyarre, and her cousin Gracie Pwerle Morton. Witnessing the artistic endeavors of her famous grandmother and aunties, particularly during the creation of Batik works in the 1980s, left a lasting impression on Esther.

In her artistic journey, Esther continues the legacy by painting in her grandmother's distinctive style, characterized by large bush medicine leaves. Her keen eye for detail and adept use of color contribute to the vibrancy of her creations. The bush medicine leaves she depicts hold cultural significance, representing the healing properties of the Kurrajong tree in traditional medicines used by women from the Utopia region. Through her art, Esther pays tribute to the spirit of these leaves, ensuring their continued regeneration for the benefit of her community's well-being.

Emerging as a promising artist, Esther Haywood stands as a watchful figure in the evolving landscape of Utopian art, carrying forward the traditions with reverence and innovation.