Tjanpi Desert Weavers is a fibre art project run by the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Women’s Council.
It supports over 400 Aboriginal women across 26 remote communities in the Central and Western deserts.
What is Tjanpi?
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Tjanpi means "desert grass" in Pitjantjatjara language.
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Women use this native grass to weave baskets and sculptures.
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Each piece is handmade and reflects local stories and traditions.
Who are the Artists?
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Women from the Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara, and Yankunytjatjara Lands.
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They live in remote areas across Northern Territory, South Australia, and Western Australia.
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Many artists walk long distances to collect grass and other materials.
Why Does It Matter?
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Tjanpi gives women a way to earn an income through art.
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It strengthens cultural ties across generations.
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It supports community life in areas with few job opportunities.
What Do They Make?
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Hand-woven baskets, often dyed with natural colours.
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Sculptures of animals like camels, dingoes, and goannas.
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Large collaborative works for galleries and public spaces.
Where Can You See Tjanpi Art?
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Major art galleries across Australia.
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Online through the Tjanpi Desert Weavers website.
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Art fairs, community markets, and museum collections.
Are You a Collector or Art Buyer?
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Looking for authentic Aboriginal fibre art?
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Want to support remote women artists directly?
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Explore Tjanpi’s online gallery for current works available for sale.
Do You Work in Education or Curation?
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Tjanpi artists offer workshops and artist talks.
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You can bring a Tjanpi piece into your program or classroom.
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Contact Tjanpi Desert Weavers for collaboration.
Visiting the Central Desert?
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Ask local art centres if Tjanpi artists are exhibiting nearby.
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Some communities host weaving demonstrations.
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Respect cultural protocols when engaging with artists on Country.
Tjanpi Desert Weavers is not just art.
It’s women's work, culture, income, and connection, made from desert grass.
Would you like to learn more about a specific artist or community involved in Tjanpi?
Let’s explore their stories, one sculpture at a time.
