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Gaanj (Shells) – Cecelia Tigan

Gaanj earrings designed by Mayala artist Cecilia Tigan.
Cecilia is from in Ardyloon/One Arm Point on the Dampier Peninsula and ger work is strongly influenced by her late father, the renowned riji (ceremonial pearl carving) artist Aubrey Tigan whose shells are held in galleries and museums around the world. Like her father, Cecilia tells stories of her Mayala heritage, collecting pearl shells on the high tide, whirlpools and tidal movements, ancestral connections, traditional hunting techniques and tools and ocean food and medicine.

There are 2 types of gaanj earrings, a larger set with the fan and trochus shells (measuring approx. 4.5cm across) and the smaller set with the 2 long trumpet and cone shells (measuring approx. 7cm in length).
They are both made with a gold flecked, pearl finish main design and have a gold mirror top.
All our earrings use stainless steel, nickel free findings.

Name: Cecelia Tigan


Language: Bardi, Mayala


Community: Broome


Biography:

Cecelia joined Nagula Jarndu in 2022 when she moved to Broome with her family. She was born in Ardyaloon/One Arm Point on the Dampier Peninsula where she spent her childhood. Her work is strongly influenced by her late father, the renowned riji (ceremonial pearl carving) artist Aubrey Tigan whose shells are held in galleries and museums around the world. Like her father, Cecilia tells stories of her Bard Jawi, Mayala heritage, collecting pearl shells on the high tide, whirlpools and tidal movements, ancestral connections, traditional hunting techniques and tools, ocean food and medicine. She has strong connections to her heritage and is passionate about the recording and maintenance of language and respectful cultural practices that ensure the integrity of her heritage is continued. 





© the artist / art centre