Nolan Tjapangati
(1939 - 2004)
NGUKUKURRA, 2002
synthetic polymer paint on linen
61.0 x 91.5 cm
bears inscription verso: artist's name, size, Papunya Tula Artists cat. NT990787
Estimate:
$2,000 - $3,000
Sold:
$1,350 (inc. BP)
© Nolan Tjapangati/Copyright Agency 2024
lot details
Papunya Tula Artists, Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Collection of James Smeaton, Melbourne, acquired from the above in 1999
This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Papunya Tula Artists which states:
‘This painting depicts designs associated with the rockhole site of Pirmalnga, situated in a large hill, north of the Tjukula Community. In mythological times a large group of Tingari Men camped at this site during their travels north to Pinari, north-west of the Kintore Community. A bird known as Kunkutakuta, a type of owl, also travelled the same route. Since events associated with the Tingari Cycle are of a secret nature no further detail was given. Generally, the Tingari are a group of mythical characters of the Dreaming who travelled over vast stretches of the country, performing rituals and creating and shaping particular sites. The Tingari Men were usually followed by Tingari Women and accompanied by novices and their travels and adventures are enshrined in a number of song cycles. These mythologies form part of the teachings of the post initiatory youths today as well as providing explanations for contemporary customs.’

