My Mothers Country | SP-2103

Born: c.1975

Birthplace: Alice Springs, NT

Language: Alyawarre/Anmatyerre

Skin name: Pwerle

Community: Utopia, NT



Charmaine Pwerle was born in Alice Springs; she is the daughter of artist Barbara Weir (deceased) and granddaughter of the famous Minnie Pwerle (deceased). She was raised amongst some of the best-known names from the Utopia artists of Central Australia.

Throughout her early life Charmaine was in contact with many other well-known Utopia artists including Emily Kngwarreye and Gloria Petyarre. This early experience gave her a strong desire to paint and represent traditional stories that were part of her heritage, particularly the women’s ceremonial designs and stories that were passed down from her grandmother Minnie Pwerle.

Over the years, she has honed her skills and achieved full initiation within her community. She has resided in various locations across Australia with her four daughters, son, and extended family, while also returning to Utopia frequently to engage in cultural and ceremonial events.