Biography

Alan Pitjara comes from the Utopia region or Eastern Desert in Central Australia. I (Sabine Haider, Director Central Art) have taken a keen interest in many Utopian artists over the years, particularly the Pitjara/Petyarre families and this is because of my connection with Ada Bird Petyarre. Alan came to visit me after hearing about me through his family. Alan was born on the 10th of August 1963 and has primarily lived in Utopia, an Aboriginal community several hours outside of Alice Springs. Alan and his family are responsible for the Bush Yam Dreaming. Alan’s paintings reflect the cycles of the Bush Yam – an edible plant used by Aboriginal people. Alan paints for the enjoyment of painting as a cultural activity and in Western terms would be considered a hobbyist painter.