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Status: Stock

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Lorna Shuan, Kurriyala (Carpet Snake)

The carpet snake is an important animal for us. We call it Kurriyala in our Kuku Yalanji language. Our Ancestors wrapped the meat in native ginger leaves and cooked it on the hot coals of the ground oven. They also used the skin to make head bands or skilfully sewn blankets that keep the families warm and dry at night.

Kurriyala also has spiritual significance for me.  I inherited the carpet snake Totem and related cultural knowledge from my father’s side. According to our Kuku Yalanji creation stories, the carpet snake was an Ancestral Being that travelled in its human form across the country creating waterways wherever it went, including on my father’s clan lands.

In my upbringing I was taught to respect our Elders who prepared me for my future role as carrier of cultural knowledge and spiritual traditions. I was also taught the values of taking responsibility for caring for our Traditional Clan Country and help maintain it for the younger generations so they can become strong leaders.

Art is my way of keeping the cultural knowledge of my ancestors alive and passing it down to my children and grandchildren. Sharing this body of knowledge creates strong family ties and gives me my strength.

 

Screen printed by hand in Sydney, by master printers. Sold by the metre and half metre.

 

Care Instructions: Gentle machine or hand wash only in cool water, using mild detergent.

Do Not Soak, Bleach, Rub, Wring or Tumble. Line Dry Only in Shade. 

Warm Iron on Reverse. Do Not Dry Clean.