The Pukumani ceremony is the culmination of ritual mourning for a deceased person. Several months after the burial, family commission in-laws of the deceased to carve and decorate elaborate tutini. These are then placed at the gravesite during a showy performance of song and dance, and tunga (bark bags) are placed upside down on top of the poles to signify the end of life. These sculpturally beautiful ‘artworks’ are left to the elements, returning to the bush from which they are made. Traditionally Tiwi use bloodwood for tutini, but cured ironwood is the prefered timber for commercial carvings thanks to its durability. Current practice of carving pukumani poles is an expression of the artist’s cultural heritage through contemporary art. They are created as an artistic form of expression to be viewed and appreciated by a broader public with the intention to maintain and share Tiwi cultural knowledge. Tutini carved with a pronged or forked apex represents the fight between Purukuparli and his brother Taparra the moon man. Diamond and curved shapes are a female embodiment, but each pole represents all and everything that is Tiwi culture.
Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association Shipping policy
Artwork price includes shipping within Australia. Please contact us for international orders.
Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association Refund policy
Refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis. All artworks are covered by transit insurance and should damage occur in transit the customer will be offered the options to repair, exchange or refund the work.
Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association Return policy
Refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Tarnanthi Art Fair 2023 is Now Closed
Thank you for supporting the 2023 Tarnanthi Art Fair and all of the incredible participating Art Centres.
Congratulations to those who purchased a work of art! Art Centre staff are already carefully packing and freighting your precious packages – so if you have an enquiry about your purchase, please contact the Art Centre directly with the details found in your order email.