Johnny Yungut Tjupurrula (c.1930 - 2016)

PUKARATJA, 2002

synthetic polymer paint on linen

121.5 x 91.5 cm

bears inscription verso: artist’s name, size and Papunya Tula Artists cat. JY0206208

Painted at Kintore, Northern Territory in 2002
Papunya Tula Artists, Alice Springs
Private collection, Sydney, acquired from the above in 2002

This painting is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Papunya Tula Artists, Alice Springs, which states:

‘This painting depicts designs associated with the soakage water site of Pukaratja, north of the Pollock Hills in Western Australia. In mythological times a large group of Tingari Men passed through this site during their travels north-east to Lake Mackay. 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.’