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Cultural Way
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Cultural Way
Kira Kiro artists have created a collaborative artwork which acknowledges and celebrates the cultural stories and practices of their Country. The ten panels detail – the changing seasons, day and night as well as the plants, animals, fish, and birds that inhabit the Country of the Kwini and Wunambal-Gamberra peoples living in and around Kalumburu.
The powerful spirits of the Wandjina are seen in the clouds as the wet season rains begin are followed by scenes of abundant life. Cave paintings, which can be found throughout the northern Kimberley region and inspire much of the paintings of Kira Kiro artists, show hand prints, Ungud (the snake) along with Wandjina and Kira Kiro figures all painted amongst various sea and land creatures. Kira Kiro spirits are depicted throughout the artwork dancing and celebrating life as they watch over and protect the Country.
These panels have been digitally reproduced and adorn the Aged Care facility in Kalumburu Community.
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Cultural Way
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Cultural Way
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Cultural Way
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Cultural Way
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Kira Kiro Spirits
From the time of the beginning – the Dreamtime – called Lalai by Kwini people, the Kira Kiro have been the guardians and assistants of the Wandjina. They are good spirits and are also traditional dancers who sing about the yam and fruits that can be gathered when the wet season rains begin. The Kira Kiro spirits taught Aboriginal people what food to hunt and gather, and how to use certain plants and trees for medicines. They taught us how to care for the land and rivers and sea; to not waste food or cut down trees. They taught Aboriginal people about which trees are used for artefacts, where to find natural ochres, to look after rock art and sacred sites and where warriors are buried. The rocks where warriors are buried are painted with white ochre. From generation to generation we learn the knowledge of the Kira Kiro from our warriors and elders past and present. These stories we are proud of. They were locked in our minds because we didn’t have books to keep for the younger generation. The Bradshaws or Kira Kiro figures are the worlds oldest rock art figures, even older than the Wandjina.
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Ngalkodjek
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Bush Jewellery – Necklace
The women of Maningrida and surrounding homelands use a combination of locally found seeds, bone and shells to make a variety of jewellery including necklaces. earrings and bracelets. Many of the artists use complex patterns and designs to make their beautiful creations.