"Worm Dreaming" By Danny Possum Tjampitjinpa

Artist: Danny Possum Tjampitjinpa

Size (H x W): 55 x 89 cm

Worm Dreaming is a sacred story from Danny Possum’s ancestral lands near Napperby, in the Tanami Desert of the Northern Territory — close to where his grandfather, Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, was born. This Dreaming tells the story of worms moving through the soft desert ground, creating long, winding tunnels. It is also a love story, where the male worm sings a vibrating song beneath the earth to attract a female, creating a gentle hum felt through the land.

Danny’s artwork captures the line work of these underground movements, often using fine dotting and layered patterns to represent worm tracks. Spinifex grass is shown to acknowledge its use in ceremony. These elements reflect both physical and spiritual connections to Country, passed down through generations.

Danny continues his family's strong artistic legacy by painting Worm Dreaming in his own way, while honouring the style of his grandfather.

About the Artist – Danny Possum Tjampitjinpa

Danny Possum Tjampitjinpa is an emerging Indigenous artist from Alice Springs, and the son of Michelle Possum Nungurrayi and grandson of Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri - two of the most respected names in Australian Aboriginal art.

Growing up surrounded by artists and storytellers, Danny has inherited a deep cultural knowledge and a strong visual language. His paintings reflect his grandfather’s iconic style, blending traditional Aboriginal symbolism with layered dot work to tell stories of Country, Dreaming, and identity.

Danny now lives in Victoria with his wife and their two sons. He continues to paint with respect for his heritage and pride in his family’s cultural legacy.