Reparata (Reppie) Orsto - Tiwi Island Artist

Born: 31 January 1959 Place: Nguiu, Bathurst Island Mother's Country: Wangurruwu (Marluwu), Bathurst Island Father's Country: Munupi, Melville Island Skin Group: Yikikini (white cockatoo) Dreaming: Jarrikarlani (turtle), Muluwa (hang man) Reppie has worked at Munupi Arts and Crafts Association since its beginning in 1985, producing intricate fabric and T-shirt designs as well as paintings. In 1989 she produced designs for the Territoriana label in Darwin, and then in 1990 she participated in the first Tiwi printmaking workshop in Canberra.

She has been a regular participant in gallery shows since 1990. In June 1992 she represented her community at the Munupi Exhibition in Paris. In August 1994 Reppie attended (at the invitation of the Canadian Government) the exhibition "Epama Epam", representing indigenous artists from Australia. This exhibition coincided with the Commonwealth games in Victoria, Canada. Her work is held in a number of public and private collections in both Australia and in other countries.

Collections

· National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, ACT
· Museums and Art Galleries of the Northern Territory, Darwin
· News Limited Collection
· Parliament House Collection, Canberra, ACT
· National Australian Maritime Museum, Sydney, NSW
· Kelton Foundation, USA
· Northern Territory Department of Conservation, Darwin