Born in 1978, Janelle Stockman was a vibrant young Western Arrernte artist who drew her inspiration from the landscape, plants, animals and her grandfather's stories. Janelle began painting in 2001, but tragically passed in a road accident in 2009. As the granddaughter of Billy Stockman, a recognised Papunya artist, Janelle's Dreamings included her Country, women's business, sand dunes, flora and celebratory dance. Her inspiration came from her Country around Hermannsburg and Papunya as well as Arnkawenyerr, her husband’s Country located near Utopia.
Janelle began painting in 2001 and her works have always been considered very contemporary in style. Her works do not tell a story of her ancient dreamtime but simply an expression of herself as she wanted to do a new style, and something different to everyone else.
She gained her inspiration through the landscape, a story from her past and her dream to be a famed artist like her grandfather. Her work has been admired by many and featured in exhibitions nationally and internationally, as well as being represented in collections throughout Australia.
Janelle unfortunately passed away in November 2009.
