Mara

Beswick

Southern Arnhemland

 

Walter grew up in and around Katherine in Southern Arnhemland in Northern Australia. He learned to paint and carve the Mielli/ Djarran way. Traditional artists now deceased taught Walter the old ways associated with the art.

Walter worked with Mimi arts and crafts from1979 ñ 1981 which gave him the inspiration to paint as a selling artist.

Throughout the 1970s Walter spent time in the Roper river region with tribal elders artists Ashley Sambo Burra Burra and Willie Gudjabi, strengthening family ties and learning from them. His uncle Gerry Blitner was chairman of the Northern land Council for many years.

Walter describes his sculptures and painting as open paintings as he chooses to paint the lifestyle of the Mara people rather than the sacred /secret stories.His art depict billabongs animals and spiritual beings all concerned with the day to day life of his people.Walter is one of the few aboriginal artists that still collect natural ochres to make the traditional paint that gives his work a special quality.

Ancient Earths gallery director is proud to be so closely associated with Walter Blitner and recognises the links he has with the stories and legends of the past.

Aboriginal artist Walter Blitner has carved and painted the ancient art of his ancestors in a contemporary form. Walter is from a family of artists and carvers. His work centres around the mythical images of spirit figures and legends handed down over thousands of years.

Art has been a part of Walter Blitners culture since the Dreamtime or creation era as we know it today.

Painted Country Gallery's director has been closely associated with Walter and his art since 1986. Enquiries regarding his future works are welcome.