Madelene Purdie was born Kununurra East Kimberley.  She attended school at Turkey Creek (Warmun) and Broome. Madelene is part of one of the most respected and artistically renowned families in the Kimberley.  Her mother (Shirley Purdie) and grandmother (Madigan Thomas) are both well-known artists and highly regarded Law women of the Gija community.

 

Madelene commenced painting with the Warmun Art Centre twelve years ago.  She has four children and her husband’s family live in a remote community. She has now returned to Turkey Creek (Warmun Community) where she has re-formed the Women’s Centre and is managing this very important cultural initiative.