111982219131

Published by on



Bondok (Spear Thrower)

The Bondok (Spear Thrower) is used to help propel a spear. These items are used for hunting and highly decorative pieces are used in ceremony. Also known as woomera; a flat type of spear thrower. The bondok is held in one hand, with the spear placed in the hook at the top of the bondok.

Like spears and boomerangs, bondok’s are more commonly used by men. s In the West Arnhem region are exclusive to ‘mens business’, meaning women are forbidden to use. If touched or held by women, women will be cursed to have bad luck or in some cases infertility.

Name: Hedley Brian


Language: Kune


Community: Maningrida


Biography:

Hedley Brian is a younger brother of acclaimed senior artist Lena Yarinkura. He has many careers in his life working as a CDP supervisor and is a keen and able gardener. He has incredible knowledge of native bush-foods of Arnhem Land and their uses.

In recent years like many of his family he has taken to becoming and artist, who makes Mako (didjeridu), Bark paintings and fibre sculpture.


© the artist / art centre