Kapi Piti Waterholes

Andrew Tjupurrula Highfold

In this painting, Andrew Highfold says: “I came to it because the creeks that flow near Alice Springs – I was keen to paint the creek as I saw it. It reminded me of Indulkana Creek in the APY Lands, I was interested in knowing about that country. When I saw it, it was always dry. Now it flows in the Wet. I’ve seen it flood four times – it really floods. In times after the rains it can be very dry on top, but dig down and there’s the water. That’s how Aboriginal people do it, they dig down for water. When it’s dry you can really see the difference.

I like a contemporary style with traditional input. As a contemporary artist I ask my family what I can paint. I like ochre colours, reds and oranges. I get the ideas of the bush colours by looking around. This represents Country, how Country blooms. Apart from the creek there are the deeper waterholes. Through my painting, it really connects me to who I am. It strengthens my Aboriginality. I can pass it on to my kids and family connections. It brings my family together. When I was in Alice and painting it would all bring us together. My brothers would come around and they would sing to the paintings. Painting is good for my kids, it documents that historical kinship.”