| Description: |
The subject of this painting is
associated with a mythological event in the Tingari Cycle, which is related
to a site known as Kanapilynga south-east of Lake Mackay in Western Australia.
It was here during the Dreaming when a large group of Tingari Ancestors
(men and boys) returned from Marpuri to their home country for Malliera
(initiation) ceremonies.
Throughout the site of Kanapilynga there exist a number
of soakage and rockhole sites. The former are represented by the yellow
elongated rectangles while the latter are symbolised by the small yellow
rectangles. The remaining red design elements denote the surrounding sandhill
country. Since events associated with the Tingari Cycle are of a secret
and sacred nature, no further details were given.
Generally, the Tingari are a group of Mythological beings
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. 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. |
