Edna Dale Australian, Ngarinyin, b. 1983

Edna Dale is a Ngarinyin woman and chairperson of Imintji Community, where she lives with her husband Lance Bedford and their seven daughters. Edna is the daughter of famous Kimberley artist Jack Dale Mengenen (dec 1920-2013). Growing up she spent much of her time by her father’s side traveling their country, watching him paint and tell stories. Edna has her own distinct style however her elongated wandjina figures and minimalist aesthetic are a clear departure from the imagery of her father.

Edna's father also taught her the Law, and showed her the many cave sites that are sacred to Ngarinyin people, especially around Imintji, on the Gibb River Road. Edna's husband Lance Bedford is the son of famous Gija painter Paddy Bedford and their oldest daughter, Petrina Bedford is also a talented emerging artist.