MINNIE PWERLE - AWELYE ATNWENGERRP

 MINNIE PWERLE
AWELYE ATNWENGERRP,  2002
181 x 122cm
synthetic polymer paint on belgian linen
 
PROVENANCE
Utopia, NT
Dacou Aboriginal Art Gallery, SA Tjala Aboriginal Art, Sydney, NSWCoo-ee Aboriginal Art Gallery, NSW 
 
STORY
The bold linear patterns of stripes and curves throughout Minnieā€™s painting depicts the women's 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 ā€�painted upā€™. The songs relate to the Dreamtime stories of Ancestral Travel and other plants, animals and natural forces. Awelye-Womenā€™s ceremony demonstrates respect for the land and in performing these ceremonies they ensure well being and happiness within the communities.