Mario Walarmerpui (deceased)

Mario Walarmerpui, is an innovative and accomplished carver. Mario was born in Bathurst 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 is often commissioned by his Tiwi relatives to carve the imposing Tutini produced for the complex Pukamani ceremony performances.  His works have to date only created for these ceremonies as his design flair is well recognized in the community. Following a recent invitation to travel to Taiwan to meet the celebrated Taiwanese Indigenous artist Etan Pavavalung, Mario has now started to carve for the Art market and also to paint intricate and vibrant works on canvas.