MINNIE PWERLE - AWELYE

MINNIE PWERLE
AWELYE,  2001
184 x 122 cm
Synthetic Polymer Paint on Belgian Linen
 
REGION
Utopia, NT
 
PROVENANCE
Dacou Gallery, NT Cat No. DG03560
Flinders Lane Gallery, Vic Cat No. FG01006.MP
Private Collection, Vic
Cooee Art Leven, NSW 
 
STORY
The bold linear patterns of stripes and curves throughout Minnie’s painting depicts the womens ceremonial body paint design. After smearing their bodies with animal fat, the women trace these designs onto their breasts,arms and thighs singing as each woman has a turn to be ‘painted up’.

The songs are all related to the Dreamtime stories of the Awely-Womens ceremony demonstrates respect for the land and in performing these ceremonies they ensure well being and happiness within the communities.
 
 
ARTIST PROFILE
MINNIE PWERLE