Michael Nelson Tjakamarra AO

Born:  c. 1946, Pikilyi, Northern Territory

Domicile:  Papunya

Language Group:  Warlpirri

 

Michael Nelson Tjakamarra worked as a buffalo shooter, cattle drover and truck driver in the Alligator Plains of the "Top End" of Australia before beginning painting in 1976.  In 1984 he won the Northern Territory Art Award.  He quickly gained fame after he was comissioned to design  his mosaic installation for the Forecourt of the new Parliament House, Canberra.

 

Michael Nelson Tjakamarra has participated in numerous exhibitions in Australia and Internationally and his works are held in important collections.  Michael Nelson Tjakamrra was awarded the 'Order of Australia' in 1993.