Charmaine Pwerle ‘1046’

Artist

Charmaine Pwerle is a proud Alyawarre and Anmatyerre artist deeply connected to the rich cultural legacy of her grandmother Minnie Pwerle and mother Barbara Weir, two iconic figures in Australian Aboriginal art. Raised in the remote Utopia region and later educated in Adelaide, Charmaine’s art reflects a powerful blend of traditional Dreaming stories and contemporary expression. Her work often depicts women’s ceremonial practices, such as Awelye body painting and sacred rites surrounding childbirth, honoring the strength and resilience of Aboriginal women across generations.

In 2021, Charmaine expanded her artistic reach through a collaboration with The Rug Collection, transforming her Dreaming paintings into a hand-woven rug series that brings the spirit of her Country into homes worldwide. Recognized nationally and internationally, her art bridges ancient traditions and modern innovation, serving as a profound statement of identity, cultural resilience, and intergenerational love. Each piece pays tribute to her ancestors while inspiring future generations of Aboriginal storytellers.

Learn more about Charmaine Pwerle here.

Artwork Information

Painted in 2021, this work measures 41cm x 33cm. It is currently stretched and ready to hang, with the artist’s signature featured on the canvas.

This artwork was a part of the ‘Celebration of Country’ virtual exhibition.

Dreaming

Awelye Atnwengerrp (Women’s Ceremony)
Charmaine’s ‘Awelye’ works depict the ceremonial body paint designs applied to women’s breasts and upper bodies in preparation for ceremony. The lines and motifs symbolise each woman’s connection to her Dreaming, painted using a mixture of ochre, charcoal, and ash applied with fingers or padded sticks. Circular forms represent ceremonial sites and the movement of women across Country, reflecting deep cultural and spiritual meaning.

Learn more about this dreaming here.

Medium

Each artwork is meticulously created using the highest quality materials to ensure longevity, vibrancy, and integrity over time. Artists work with premium linen canvas, selected for its durability and fine texture, paired with professional-grade acrylics and hand-picked brushes. This combination allows for both bold expression and intricate detail, preserving the richness of the stories embedded in every piece. All materials are archival and museum-quality.