Tjilkamata – Echidna Carving

$308.33

  • 23cm x 6cm x 5.5cm
  • Iṯaṟa ~ River red gum
  • Catalog No: taf24-21

Paintings depict the Tjukurpa, the Law and stories of Ancestors. Anangu (Central and Western Desert Aboriginal people) have responsibilities for the protection and teaching of different Tjukurpa and there are strict protocols for the imparting of knowledge. The dotting technique has evolved with the need to adapt sacred expressions of Tjukurpa for public viewing and as a depiction of the desert landscape.

This painting describes Tjukurpa related to Tjilkamata, the Echidna from country around Kaltukatjara or Docker River in the south west corner of the Northern Territory. It involves kin and country and a ritual spearing but the details belong to the custodians.

Also known as tjirilya or spiny anteater (Tachyglossus aculeatus), it is an animal unique to Australia. Covered in sharp spikes, in the desert country it lives in rocky habitats and is considered a favourite food by many Anangu.

For Anangu survival depends on understanding Tjukurpa and how it provides a code to read the both the physical and social environments. Paintings such as this one are a contemporary way of continuing to celebrate and teach through the Tjukurpa.

Available

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