AustLit

'Daisy Tjuparntarri Ward is a respected elder of the Warakurna community and Ngaanyatjarra people of Western Australia. She is a cultural and community liaison officer for regional schools, a director on the NPYWomen’s Council, an advocate against domestic violence, a qualified translator, artist and sought-after storyteller.

'‘Last year Tjuparntarri walked into my studio looking for art supplies. Over several weeks, we got to know each other and I discovered I’d met an extraordinary woman,’ says David Darcy.

'‘Super-Tjupa, as she is referred to by friends, has a remarkable connection to country and traditional culture, yet this “born-in-the-bush, modern woman” possesses a wonderful ability to navigate Western society with intellect, charm and good humour.’

'The paintwork on Tjupa’s chest is a traditional design from women’s songs that she is entitled to perform. The red oxide that covers her face and torso is today purchased at the hardware store and is commonly used in place of the traditional red ochre.' (Art Gallery of New South Wales website)

'In his years of travelling the length and breadth of Australia, David Darcy has met many an old timer with a story to share - childhood memories of a very different Australia, and stories from a lifestyle that is fast disappearing as Australia changes and takes its place in the modern world. Here David Darcy is on the road again, traversing the continent in search of a good yarn and an interesting face. Through candid portraits and poignant, intimate conversations with men and women from all walks of Australian life, he captures recollections of childhood memories, a life lived on the land, in the cities, on the shores of this great dry continent - stories from a disappearing world.' (Publications summary)

'Since Indigenous Australians first shared their lives with dingoes thousands of years ago, dogs have been part of the fabric of everyday life in Australia. This book explores this timeless bond between man and dog. Travelling around Australia, from the coast to the Outback, David photographed blokes from all walks of life as they talked about their dogs-from tough working dogs to pampered family pets. The result is a funny, moving and unforgettable tribute to man's best friend. ' (Publisher's blurb)