Deutscher and Hackett

Kunwinjku; Bark paintings by James Iyuna, John Mawurndjul and Ivan Namirikki, Deutscher Gertrude Street, Melbourne, 12 – 28 July 1989

This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Maningrida Arts and Crafts which states: 'Ngalyod – rainbow serpent is a very important figure in Kunwinjku mythology. He is known by different names and assumes different forms. He is the central focus of many dreaming sites, each of which has a different story. Here, Ngalyod is taking the form of Yinarnga – a dreaming kangaroo – at the artist’s mother’s country at Barrihdjokweng. At this site – Daluk (female spirit) of the Yirridja moiety, broke the sacred law by entering Ngalyod’s territory and was swallowed by him. This spirit now exists at the site as Wyuk – waterlily, which is shown on the stomach of Yinarnga. Ngalyod disguises himself with Wyuk, hiding so as to surprise intruders. This is considered a dangerous place to touch or break waterlily stems of leaves. On the right hand side and under the chin of Yinarnga is goln – palm tree.’