Carlene was born in Ernabella in 1950, and continues to live near Ernabella at the homeland Black Hill No. 2. Her husband, Kawaki (Punch) Thompson, is a highly regarded senior Pitjantjatjara man who was a major figure in the Land Rights Movement. She has four daughters, three of whom also paint at the art center, including Vivian Thompson, one of Ernabella's outstanding ceramicists.

Carlene only started painting at the art center in 2007, but quickly developed a very individual style. Her designs are original and contemporary while being often based on Country and the creation beings of her family's country. She is a strong participant in women's ceremony and has passed this knowledge down to her daughters. Carlene is on the Board of both Ernabella Arts and NPY Women's Council.

MEDIUMS

Painting
Mukata (Handspun woollen hats or Beanies)
Ceramics
Printmaking, woodblock prints
Punu (wood carving)

THEMES

Tjulpu (Birds)
Kipara munu Kalaya Tjukurpa (The story of Emu and Bush Turkey)
Tjulpu Mankulpa (The story of Eagle, Cocky, Crow)