Betty Muffler

Betty Muffler, an aboriginal artist hailing from Australia, resides and practices her craft in a secluded region of South Australia. She is a Ngangkari, a traditional healer, and a highly esteemed individual within her community. She possesses a deep knowledge of Pitjantjatjara, one of the Aboriginal languages, showcasing her expertise and cultural fluency.

Her artworks are a captivating blend of Australian Aboriginal culture and visual symbols, showcasing her distinct creative vision. The introduction to her work is deeply grounded in tradition.

“As an artist, I am responsible for the creation of my artwork. I am also an artist who specializes in painting emus, the flightless birds native to Australia. I portray the imprints of the emus’ footsteps that remain in Yalungu, a place of great spiritual and cultural importance in Aboriginal tradition. Water can be found in that location, where emus gracefully quench their thirst and leisurely roam. I carefully capture this on canvas. I frequently create artwork that depicts hands as a symbol of healing and the eagle within me, representing the spirit of my father. When an individual’s soul becomes misplaced, I dispatch my majestic eagle to locate it. Once discovered, the soul can be reunited, the individual awakens, and a process of healing unfolds.”

Muffler’s artwork beautifully captures her rich life experiences and the profound importance of her role as a Ngangkari. These works hold great significance for me. Those of us who possess the ability, such as myself, have the capacity to perceive spirits and detect a multitude of energies. When engaging in the creation of art, a profound sense of positivity permeates my being. This is deeply intertwined with my innermost being, and the multitude of emotions that accompany this powerful force are seamlessly woven into my artistic creations. Her work radiates a distinct allure in the modern art scene, as the spotlight increasingly shines on traditional cultures and the lives of indigenous peoples across the globe.

In 2022, Muffler was honored with the prestigious Telstra General Painting Award at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin. This recognition serves as a testament to her significant contributions to the world of Aboriginal art. She aspires to showcase her artwork in different countries and bring her creative vision to a broader audience. She stated, “I aim to communicate the rich stories, history, culture, and information surrounding Australia.”

Betty Muffler, Ngangkari Ngura – Healing Country 185_24, Acrylic on linen, 167.0 x 152.0cm, 2024