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Wangakalu

Jakayu and Bugai lived nomadically for much of their youth, travelling extensively around the Western Desert in the pujiman (bush dwelling) era. Often their families walked together for periods of time through the year, typically separating for a time and then arranging to meet again further along at a rockhole or other water source. When the first group arrived at the meeting place they would light a large waru (fire) to signal their arrival. Through this family relationship Bugai and Jakayu were close friends, and today they are equally respected as senior Martumili artists. Here they have worked collaboratively to depict Wangkakarlu, a claypan where their families would regularly meet in the past.

 

Wangkakarlu, an important ceremonial site, lies southeast of Parnngurr. Jakayu recalls of the area; “Walk around Wangkakarlu, Bugai (Whyoulter) and me. Wangkakarlu Bugai daddy belong mili (Wangkakarlu was Bugai’s father’s home Country). My nyupa (husband) been take me [to Wangkakarlu] too.”

 

Bugai, speaking of the jila (snake) that lives at Wangakalu, says that when visiting the site a fire must be lit to keep the snake down in the depths of the yinta (permanent water source).

Name: Bugai Whyoulter


Language: Kartujarra


Community: Kunawarritji


Name: Jakayu Biljabu


Language: Manyjilyjarra


Community: Punmu


© the artist / art centre