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Ngapartji-ngapartji. Nganampa ngura. Manta-miilmilpa. These are some of the Yankunytjatjara terms and concepts that permeate through Robert Fielding’s artand life. A contemporary storyteller of Yankunytjatjara, Western Arrernte and Pakistani descent, Fielding has been based in Mimili Community on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands for the past thirty years. Fielding’s work is rooted in his personal experience of reclaiming culture as a son of the Stolen Generation. He has spent extended periods of time connecting with Australia’s major cultural institutions, whilst concurrently learning from his Elders on the APY Lands. This personal history brings a uniquely potent perspective to his work, which offers a reminder that many cultural practices are stronger than ever today, whilst also noticing traditions worn down or destroyed by white intervention. His work is a stern truth-telling and a reconciliatory call for unity, constantly bridging perceived opposites, creating new connections and community around him.

Through residencies at Canberra Glassworks (2023) and McClelland Sculpture Park (2023), Robert continues to deepen his relationships with peers throughout Australia, always generously inviting collaboration and co-creation. As a mentor to artists and staff at Mimili Maku Arts, Fielding has been integral to supporting and nurturing culturally safe spaces of knowledge exchange. Fielding will be joined during his residency at VCA by long-term Mimili Maku Arts co-manager Angus Webb who has worked alongside Mimili artists in creating new models of safely engaging with institutions for the past seven years. Mimili Maku Arts is an Aboriginal-owned and governed contemporary art studio home to some of the most renowned artists practicing in Australia today. The centre supports future generations of Anangu in Mimili, with strong roots planted in culture and country.