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Published by CompNet Systems on

Women collecting bush foods

The Anangu people travelled vast desert landscapes, following the seasons for food and shelter, deeply attuned to the rhythms of the land. This resilience and wisdom embedded in traditional bush foods that sustained them across generations.

Maku (Witchety Grubs), with their creamy, nutty flavour, represent survival and the resourcefulness to draw nourishment from deep within tree roots. Kampurarrpa (Desert Raisins), small and tangy, add brightness and essential nutrients to desert diets, thriving under intense sun.

Ipalu (Bush Banana), a climbing vine with crisp, slender fruits, offers fibre and hydration—a refreshing staple in arid climates. Ili (Bush Figs), with their mild sweetness, grow from rugged trees, offering a delicate treat in the harsh terrain.

Through vibrant colours and intricate designs, these bush foods embody the spirit of Ngaanyatjarra culture, each a testament to the land’s gifts and the knowledge passed through generations.

Categories: Papulankutja Artists

Name: Sarah Josephine Lane

Language: Ngaanyatjarra

Community: Blackstone

Biography:

Sarah was born in Warburton to mother Freda Lane (nee Forbes) and father Paddy Lane. She has lived most of her life in Papulankutja (Blackstone) apart from schooling in Norseman and then Esperance on the south coast of Western Australia. She lived at Fairhaven whilst attending secondary school.

Her mother was one of the first artists to start painting at the art centre, she started when it was still a Women’s Centre delivering Health and Aged Care (HAC) services. “I was working with my mum, she was painting at HAC. I always watched her, she always made paintings.”

For a long time Sarah looked after her ageing mother in Papulankutja before Freda went to live in Wanarn Nursing Home where she resides now.

Sarah has five adult children who all live in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands, three daughters and two sons. Her first husband has passed away and her second husband Lawrence Mitchell is also an artist.

Sarah’s father was from Mantamaru, it was his mother’s country. Her mother was born at Wirrju rockhole just east of Papulankutja and had five sisters from eldest to youngest, Topsy, Doren, Freda, Shirley, May and Stella.

Sarah enjoys making arts and crafts and has been an active tjarnpi (grass) weaver and also makes purnu (wood) carvings and gumnut seed jewellery. Sarah's art practice themes are Seven sisters, Tjitji Kutjara (The story of two boys from the country around Jameson), and Tali (sand hill).

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