Emily Pwerle's country is Atnwengerrp and her language is Anmatyerre and Alyawarre. She is approximately in her late 80s having been born possibly in 1922 (no records exist). Emily lives in Irrultja, a tiny settlement in Utopia of about 100 people. She has had little exposure to western culture and only picked up a paintbrush for the first time in 2004.

Many members of Emily's extended family are artists: Barbara Weir, Aileen and Betty Mpetyane, and her older sister, the late Minnie Pwerle. Emily was encouraged by all to paint along with her sisters Galya and Molly Pwerle. It wasn't until late 2004 that Barbara Weir, Minnie Pwerle's daughter, organised the first workshop for the sisters which was held at Irrultja station. This inaugu...