Papunya Tula Artists, Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Private collection, Melbourne
Private collection, Melbourne


This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Papunya Tula Artists which states:
'This painting depicts designs associated with the site of Yunala, west of the Kiwirrkura Community. In mythological times a large group of Tingari Men camped at this site before continuing their travels to Lake Mackay. While in the area they gathered the edible roots of the bush banana or silky pear (Marsdenia australis) which is plentiful in the region. Since events associated with the Tingari Cycle are of a secret nature no further in 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.'