TJULYATA KULYURU - TJUKULA

TJULYATA KULYURU  
TJUKULA (WATERHOLES),  2024
170 x 120 cm
Synthetic Polymer Paint on Canvas
 
PROVENANCE
Ernabellla Arts Inc, SA
Art Leven, Gadigal NSW
 
STORY
For the Pitjantjatjara people living in the desert, knowledge of their water sources was critical to their survival. This resulted in an intimate understanding of the landscape which continues today. Water is an essential element in the desert. These rock holes were particularly important during the dry season when most of the water holes and creeks dried up. Deep familiarity with the topography of their country and the way rain would interact with the land ensured constant sources of water could be found. Knowledge of rock hole sites is passed on from generation to generation and revered by all Anangu (people).
 
Tjukula means rock-holes, which are found with surprising frequency in the Musgrave Ranges and country around Ernabella. Betweenvisits,Ananguwoulduseaconstructionofrocksandspinifextoguardtheseimportantwatersources from spoilage by feral and stock animals such as cattle, camels, horses and donkeys.