GLORIA PETYARRE - BUSH MEDICINE LEAVES

 GLORIA PETYARRE
BUSH MEDICINE LEAVES,  1990
212 x 122 cm
Synthetic Polymer Paint on Belgian Linen
 
PROVENANCE
Utopia, NT
Delmore Gallery, NTPrivate Collection, VicCooee Art, NSWAccompanied by certificate of authenticity from Delmore Gallery 
 
STORY
Raised in a remote part of the Eastern Desert and initiated into Anmatyerre law and traditions, Gloria Petyarre participated in the first art programs organised at Utopia in 1977, when she was 39 years of age. These early batik-making workshops marked the emergence of Aboriginal women artists as a force in the desert painting movement. This highly accomplished work represents the leaves of the Kurrajong tree, used in the Utopia region to treat a variety of ailments. The women collect the leaves, then dry and mix them with Kangaroo fat in order to extract the plant's medicinal qualities. The significance of the Kurrajong tree and the part it plays in healing is celebrated in the Women's Awelye ceremonies.In painting the Bush Medicine Leaf story, Gloria pays homage to the spirit of the medicinal plant. By re-creating its image, she encourages its regeneration, so that her people can continue to benefit from its healing powers.