Reggie Uluru presents first international exhibition in New York

The spiritual heart of Central Australia has taken centre stage in New York, as senior Yankunytjatjara man Reggie Uluru presents his first international exhibition.

Reggie Uluru. Image: Walkatjara Art.

The spiritual heart of Central Australia has taken centre stage in New York, as senior Yankunytjatjara man Reggie Uluru presents his first international exhibition at D’Lan Contemporary gallery.

The exhibition opened Thursday, and features Mr Uluru’s paintings of the Ngintaka Tjukurpa (Perentie Lizard Man creation story), representing his cultural knowledge, history, and deep connection to country.

“This is a straight story, from the tjukurpa (dreamtime), and nobody can change that story,” Mr Uluru said.

“I’m happy doing this painting, because I’m explaining my story. People will see my history, my culture. I feel proud to teach young ones about country, my tjukurpa, our learning stories, about family ancestors, how to find waterholes and best tucker.

“Show them the right way – connection to culture, how my father taught me long time ago.”

Reggie Uluru at work. Image: Walkatjara Art.

A delegation of senior Anangu leaders from Mutitjulu community is accompanying the exhibition to New York.

Theyare presenting talks, lead cultural exchange events, and launch a short film featuring Mr Uluru telling the Ngintaka story.

While in the United States, the delegation will also meet with Kevin Rudd, Australia’s US Ambassador and former Prime Minister.

This meeting represents a significant moment in international recognition of Anangu culture, and coincides with the 40th anniversary of the hand back of Uluru to traditional owners – an event in which Mr Uluru played a central role.

Reggie Uluru performing Inma at Uluru Handback in 1985. Image: Ara Irititja.

The initiative has been made possible through funding from the Anangu Communities Foundation (ACF), established by Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia to support Anangu-led projects that strengthen education, culture, and economic development.

Mr Uluru is a respected traditional owner of Uluru, and worked for many years as a ranger and tour guide in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.