Kumpaya Girgaba

born about 1945, Manyjilyjarra language group, Karimarra skin group, Parnngurr community, Martumili Artists

A respected law woman and cultural leader, Kumpaya was born near Kiwirrkurra and grew up around the Canning Stock Route.

For many years her family avoided contact with Europeans, but eventually they moved to Jigalong mission to join their relatives.

Kumpaya learned how to paint and weave baskets while visiting family in Balgo, Fitzroy Crossing and Patjarr. She is credited with introducing these skills to Martu people.