Mario Walarmerpui

Mario Walarmerpui, was an innovative and accomplished carver. Mario was born on Bathurst Island and came to Pirlangimpi with his mother when he was seventeen, after the death of his father. He was taught painting by George Norm Pangiraminni. He was often commissioned by his Tiwi relatives to carve the imposing Tutini produced for the complex Pukamani ceremony performances. His works were until recently only created for these ceremonies as his design flair was well recognized in the community. Following a recent invitation in 2019 to travel to Taiwan to meet the celebrated Taiwanese Indigenous artist Etan Pavavalung, Mario started to carve for the Art market and also to paint intricate and vibrant works on canvas.

Now recently deceased Mario is a finalist in the 2021 Telstra NATSIAA