Aboriginal Painting by Bessie Nakamarra Sims (1940-2012)

Bessie Nakamarra Sims was born in the bush in 1940 where she lived for many years before coming into contact with white people at Mt. Doreen Station, west of Yuendumu in Australia. Most recently she lived in South Camp in Yuendumu and was an active member within the community. In her spare time she went hunting for Wardapi and bush tucker such as Yarla and Yakajirri. She was one of the most valued members of the Warlukurlangu Artists Community. Painting since the mid 1980s, she has consistently been exhibited nationally and internationally in group exhibitions. She occasionally collaborated on larger works with her husband, Paddy Japaljarri Sims (who passed away in 2011 and who was also a reputable artist). The main Dreaming’s in Bessie’s work were Ngarlajiyi (Small Yam), Janganpa (Possum), Pamapardu (Flying Ant), Karntajarra (Two Women), Yarla (Bush Potato) and Mukaki (Bush Plum).

Bessie was quoted as saying, ‘I like painting ’cause it’s my Dreaming, from my father and grandfather’s side. I like to teach kids my Dreaming. I want everyone to know my Dreaming from all over the world. I know and they can know.’