The Lajamanu community was initially hesitant to do as others in the region had done and record their Jukurrpa (Warlpiri word for dreaming) in artworks available to a Western audience. Once they began painting in 1985, however, the Lajamanu artists produced a collection of vibrant and significant paintings. This was only furthered in 1986 when John Quinn, an adult educator in the area, ran a course on ‘traditional painting’ for which paints and canvases were supplied. Despite initial funding for these materials, the Lajamanu artists are primarily known for their large-scale works on repurposed housing materials including Masonite® hardboards from derelict houses – often painted with a combination of house paints, PVAs and acrylics. By 1988 the Lajamanu artists were displaying their work around the country and abroad, and a formal artists company was established.
The majority of the NGV’s Lajamanu collection was acquired in 1989 with funding from CRA Limited is currently being conserved as part of the Bank of America Art Conservation Project, in collaboration with the Lajamanu art community. The Warlpiri people at Lajamanu continue to share their culture through artworks on linen or canvas available for viewing and purchase through the Warnayaka Art Centre, Lajamanu, Northern Territory.