Kunmanara Edwards

Image Description: The design for this rug is from an original painting, acrylic on Belgian linen. Kunmanara has developed a distinctive style of painting based on the environment she lives in. She normally uses a bright vibrant palette. Project: These beautiful, unique rugs are a cross-cultural collaboration combining Aboriginal designs and traditional Kashmiri rug-making techniques. Chain stitched, using hand dyed wool and finished with a heavy cotton canvas backing, each rug is a completely handmade piece. This project, although in its early stages, is already bringing noticeable benefit to the artists and the community. Purchase of these rugs guarantees a direct return to the Aboriginal artists, as the project is an initiative of Kaltjiti, their own art organization. Artist: Kunmanara was born ‘out bush’ into her small family group. She lived and travelled with her family, learning about bush tucker and hunting, before settling at the Ernabella Uniting Church Mission. She initially attended Ernabella School but later moved to Fregon and was taught by Nancy Shepherd. Kunmanara worked in the Kaltjiti employment includes Health Worker in the Community clinics, working in the store, the school and Council office. She has seven children.