114182308695

Published by CompNet Systems on

Kungkarrangkalpa (Seven Sisters)

‘Kungkarrangkalpa’ (The Seven Sisters or Pleaides) is significant Tjukurrpa (dreamtime). Its origins you may be familiar with in astronomy and its connection to ‘Wati Nyiru’ (Magic Man or Orion).  The roots of this dreaming stems across indigenous groups around the world. The Australian Aboriginal songline is one part to the whole dreaming which can be traced all around the world. The ladies of the Ngaanyatjarra Lands depict their significant chapter and understanding of the journey of the sisters. The different versions of this story depend on where you live and the significance’s of local Tjukurrpa places.

Nyiru fell in love with the sisters but he was of the wrong skin group to marry, but he still pursued them on their journey. The sisters travel across the land to escape Nyiru’s unwanted attentions, but he is persistent and always finds them. There are significant land forms which can be sited today that evidence this dreaming. As Nyiru is chasing the sisters he tries to catch them by using magic to turn into the most tempting kampurarrpa (bush tomato) and the most beautiful Yirli (wild fig tree), for them to eat and camp under. However, the sisters are knowledgeable of his magic and too clever for Nyiru who they outwit again and again. They go hungry and run through the night rather than be caught by him. As the journey continues, Nyiru gets so frustrated at the wit of the sisters that he uses his magic to make the oldest sister sick to try and get closer to her. The other sisters rescue the big sister and nurse her back to health. It is said he also captures the youngest sister, but with the help of the oldest sister, she escapes back to her sisters who are waiting for her. Eventually, the sisters fly into the sky to escape Nyiru, forming the constellation. Nyiru felt lonely, longing for the sisters who were so far away. Nyiru used his magic to go to the sky, forever in pursuit.

Categories: Papulankutja Artists

Name: Dorothy Richards

Language: Ngaanyatjarra

Community: Mantamaru (Jameson)

Biography:

Dorothy Richard's work is a captivating colourscape inspired by the land, stories past and present and her grandchildren. Her eye for colour is unmatched and distinguishes her work as a tapestry that nods to tradition while celebrating contemporary indigenous art styles and colours. 

Her love for life and culture imbues her work with spirit and speaks of a rich connection to what grows from the land and the strong women that gather bush grub and tree roots. Keeping culture strong and stories rolling are integral to what inspires this talented artist and in turn, her work inspires all those around her.

Dorothy lives and works in Jameson and also makes tjanpi, beads and indigenous artefacts to compliment her illuminated arts portfolio. 

Related Posts

Papulankutja Artists

114182330953

Wati kutjara – The goanna men This is the story of two powerful magicians who came to the Ngaanyatjarra Lands from far away to the west; ‘These two men are always together, always camping together. Read more…

Papulankutja Artists

114182331296

Minyma Tingarri – Angilyiya Tjapiti Mitchell ‘Minyma Tingarri’, is significant tjukurrpa (dreaming) that Angilyiya shares through her artwork. The Tingarri songlines are sacred knowledge held by elders across the Ngaanyatjarra Lands and recognised by different Read more…

Papulankutja Artists

11414002413

Status: Stock Serena (small) Crossbody   Simple, unstructured bag. Three zips, one at top, 2 on front pockets that go to the depth of the bag. Adjustable and detachable strap.

© the artist / art centre