Maratj are ceremonial body adornments made from balgurr (Kurrajong). The bark is stripped from the tree, smashed with a rock to soften then boiled, sometimes with natural bush dyes. The balgurr is then rolled in the a rope then used to create ceremonial wear. These normally have feathers at the end. These are worn by women after a cleansing ceremony, especially after the death of a husband.
Name: Margaret Djarrbalabal
Language: Ganalbingu
Community: Ramingining
Biography:
Margaret Djarbalarbal Malibirr is a fibre artist most known for traditional ceremonial pieces that incorporate natural materials such as balgurr (kurrajob bark), feathers, and gunga (pandanus spiralis).
One of Bula'bula Art's most established weavers, Margaret has had works shown in an incredible selection of Australian and international group exhibitions dating back to 1989.
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Raypiny Dhawu (Fresh Water Story) All Aboriginal people originate from a spiritual source, fixed in a particular place in their land or the sea. These ‘spiritual reservoirs’ are often in the form of special waterholes Read more…