115682180824

Published by on



Djerrk (Bush String Bag)

Djerrk are primarily made from the bark of Baḻgurr (Red-flowered Kurrajong – Brachychiton megaphyllus) but sometimes Banyan tree (Ficus virens) and Cocky Apple tree (Planchonia careya). Sections of the tree are cut, and depending on the size, whole portions or part portions from the trunk. The inner bark is beaten or chewed to soften then dyed with natural bush dyes. Once softened and dyed, parts of the fibre are separated into fine strips then rolled on the thigh to create a rope otherwise known as bush string. The bush string is then woven and knotted to create a djerrk (string bag). Djerrk were used for every day utilitarian purposes, particularly collecting bush foods such as bäḻtji (yam).

 

Categories: Bula'bula Arts

Name: Evonne Munuyngu


Language: Mandhalpuy



Biography:

Born at Mirrngatja outstation on the Eastern edge of the Arafura Swamp and later moved to Galiwin’ku. Mununyngu married at an early age and moved to Galiwin’ku with her father. Her husband, an elder Rittharrngu man, died at Gapuwiyak (Lake Evella). They had no children.

At Galiwin’ku township she attended school at Shepherdson College, being taught by Kevin Rrurrmbu, Don Graham and Cindy Graham. She was a bright student and became fluent in English.

Before her mother died, she taught Munuyngu many things, especially how to weave a great range of fibre pieces.

After her father’s death (her husband had also died), she came to live at Ramingining to be near her brother and sisters.

 


© the artist / art centre