Description
This painting depicts a sacred rock named Dhukurrurru at a salt water country called Milaway, near Langarra (Howard Island). The Dhukurrurru is represented by Buthalak (yellow) triangles. This particular Dhukurrurru belongs to the Wobulkara Clan. The long, connected, diamond like shapes in the work represent Latjin (mangrove worms) in their different stages of development and decay; from Watharr (white, immature) to Buthjalak (yellow), Miku (red) and Mul (black, rotten), inside the Giyabara (mangrove tree of the Yirritja moiety). The tail of the Ngoykal (giant trevally) which indicates a ceremonial connection between salt water Yirritja clans is often depicted in these works.
The Rarrk (cross-hatching) within the work represents ocean currents and may also refer to Gapu Monuk (a mix of clean fresh and dirty salt water) particularly when white.
This design is painted on the body of initiates of the Dhapi (making man ceremony) and is also used inside the Ngarra men’s law ceremony.
Admin note: This story needs updating. SH.
