Peter Mungkuri was born in the bush near what is now the Fregon Community, growing up living a traditional Anangu existence with his parents and siblings. When the cattle stations were established at nearby Everard Park (Mimili) and Granite Downs, Mungkuri – like many other Anangu men – became involved with station work. 

A skilled rider with an affinity for horses, Mungkuri became a highly regarded stockman, working alongside his friends (and future Iwantja Arts painting colleagues) Alec Baker and Kunmanara (Whiskey) Tjukangku, covering vast areas of country droving and mustering cattle.

Nowadays Mungkuri is a dedicated artist, working daily at the Iwantja Arts art centre in Indulkana Community. Mungkuri is a highly respected Elder and leader in his community and all throughout the APY Lands. Mungkuri’s paintings detail his extensive knowledge of country and Anangu culture, and reflect on his experiences working the land as a stockman.

Peter Mungkuri’s paintings and work on paper have been acquired by cultural institutions and significant collections in Australia and overseas. Peter Mungkuri was the winner of the inaugural Hadley’s Prize for landscape painting in 2017 and was the winner of the NATSIAA General Painting Award in 2018. Mungkuri was recognized with the medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2020 for his services to Indigenous visual art, and to the community.