MINNIE PWERLE - BODY PAINT DESIGN
MINNIE PWERLE
BODY PAINT DESIGN, 2000
122 x 91 cm
Synthetic Polymer Paint on Canvas
PROVENANCE
Utopia, NT
Aboriginal Gallery of Dreamings Cat No. 9383Private Collection, VicAccompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Aboriginal Gallery of Dreamings
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.
