Josina Pumani

Josina Pumani's artwork mirrors the painting techniques passed down through generations of women in her family, establishing her as one of Mimili Maku's most promising emerging talents. Her pieces have been showcased in several group exhibitions, further solidifying her position as one of the brightest rising stars in the art community.  

Biography of Josina Pumani

Josina Pumani, a young Pitjantjatjara woman, was born in 1965 and raised in the heart of Mimili. She comes from a lineage deeply rooted in artistic heritage; her late mother, Ngupulya Pumani, and grandmother, Kunmanara (Milatjari) Pumani, were instrumental founders of Mimili Maku Arts. From these esteemed matriarchs, Josina gleaned invaluable lessons not only in cultural leadership but also in nurturing a profound bond with their ancestral land of Antara, with its rich associations with Maku (witchetty grub) Tjukurpa.

Josina Pumani embarked on her painting journey in 2009, swiftly transitioning into an arts worker role at Mimili Maku Arts. In this capacity, she provided invaluable support to senior artists, absorbing wisdom from her Elders while honing her skills in canvas preparation and studio assistance.

In pursuit of further education, Josina relocated to Adelaide in 2015. However, following her mother's passing in 2019, she returned to Mimili, driven by a deep desire to uphold her mother's legacy of cultural leadership. Now back in her hometown, she is dedicated to supporting her local community and reigniting her passion for art.