Elaine James

Elaine James was born and raised in Kaltukatjara or Docker River when it was a newly formed settlement for people whose traditional lands lie in the Petermann Ranges. Elaine began carving and painting as a teenager and has received dedicated instruction from her parents, Jim Nyukuti and the late Yvonne James, both experienced traditional carvers and founding executive members of the Maruku organisation. Her skills have been passed on through the Tjukurpa, the Law and way of life governing her country.