Born in the Willowra region in c.1940 just northwest of Alice Springs, Johnny Possum is a Walpiri speaking tribal elder and the half brother of the late acclaimed artist Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri.

Growing up in the bush, Johnny worked for many years as a stockman. As well as painting he was also a co-founder with ted Egan of the ‘Jangampa’ Dance and Theatre Group.

Johnny’s paintings reflect his tribal tradition, depicting symbols from ceremonial patterns created on the ground and in initiation rituals. His works have been purchased by many institutions and private collectors from around the world.

His Dreaming story central to this exhibition is the Possum Dreaming for which he is a guardian of the culture and holds the knowledge for his country. His half brother was the late acclaimed artist Clifford Possum Tjapaltjari with whom he was very close. Johnny was a co-founder with Ted Egan of the 'Jangampa' dance and theatre group. His paintings are to be seen in numerous institutions and private collections.