Bugai Whyoulter, a Martu woman, was born at Pukayiyirna, north west of Parnpajinya (Newman) in Western Australia. Whyoulter began painting professionally in her late sixties in 2007. Today, she is considered one of Martumili’s most established artists.
Known for bold compositions characterised by rhythmic lines and frenetic dotting, Whyoulter’s work is rendered in a brilliant spectrum ranging from soft pastels through to vibrant hues.
Whyoulter is from the last of the pujiman (traditional, desert dwelling) generation. She grew up living a semi-nomadic lifestyle and developed an intricate knowledge of Martu Country through her travels. Ancestral Jukurrpa (Dreaming stories) inform Whyoulter’s work and landmarks such as tali (sandhills), pila (sandy plains), warta (trees; vegetation) and various crucial water sources feature prominently. The lyinji (clay pan) site of Wantili, on the Canning Stock Route, is of great significance to the artist. It lies close to her birthplace and she is a senior Custodian of the site.