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Women collecting bush foods

The Anangu people travelled vast desert landscapes, following the seasons for food and shelter, deeply attuned to the rhythms of the land. This resilience and wisdom embedded in traditional bush foods that sustained them across generations.

Maku (Witchety Grubs), with their creamy, nutty flavour, represent survival and the resourcefulness to draw nourishment from deep within tree roots. Kampurarrpa (Desert Raisins), small and tangy, add brightness and essential nutrients to desert diets, thriving under intense sun.

Ipalu (Bush Banana), a climbing vine with crisp, slender fruits, offers fibre and hydration—a refreshing staple in arid climates. Ili (Bush Figs), with their mild sweetness, grow from rugged trees, offering a delicate treat in the harsh terrain.

Through vibrant colours and intricate designs, these bush foods embody the spirit of Ngaanyatjarra culture, each a testament to the land’s gifts and the knowledge passed through generations.

Categories: Papulankutja Artists

Name: Serina Delisha Mitchell


Language: Ngaanyatjarra


Community: Jameson


Biography:

Serina Delisha Mitchell was born in Alice Springs and grew up in Warakurna, in the heart of the Ngaanyatjarra Lands. She is a dedicated painter who carries on the strong artistic traditions of her community.

Serina paints the Kungkarangkalpa (Seven Sisters) Tjukurpa, a major ancestral story shared across the Central and Western Deserts. Her work reflects deep cultural knowledge and a strong connection to Country, passed down through generations.


© the artist / art centre