MINNIE PWERLE - AWELYE WOMENĀ€™S CEREMONY

 MINNIE PWERLE
AWELYE WOMENĀ€™S CEREMONY,  2003
94 x 124 cm
synthetic polymer on canvas
 
PROVENANCE
Dacou Gallery Cat #7323FireWorks Gallery , Brisbane Private Collection, Qld 
 
STORY
The bold linear patterns of stripes and curves throughout Minnieā€™s painting depicts the womenā€™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 as well as plants, animals and natural forces. Awelye-Womenā€™s ceremony demonstrates respect for the land. In performing these ceremonies they ensure well-being and happiness within their community.
 
EXHIBITED
Exhibited FireWorks gallery Brisbane 2004.