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Djerrk (Bush String Bag)
Djerrk (Bush String Bag) is a flexible, open weave bag made from the bark of Balgurr (red-flowered Kurrajong) but can also be made using Banyan Tree or the Cocky Apple Tree.
The bark is harvested by cutting sections of the tree from the trunk. Depending on the size of the tree, this can involve removing small sections or the whole trunk. The inner bark is then softened by being beaten or chewed, then dyed.
Bula’bula weavers exclusively use natural dyes, derived from locally sourced roots, leaves and grasses. These pigments are extracted and infused into dried balgurr fibres by boiling over an open fire, producing the rich, vibrant colours characteristic of contemporary Yolŋu weavings.
Once dyed, the fibre is separated into fine strips the rolled on the thigh to create a rope, otherwise known as bush string. The bush string is woven and knotted to create the Djerrk (String Bag). This bag was used for every day utilitarian purposes, particularly collecting bush foods.
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Ochre in Water
Mixing Ochre with water is when Ochre is at its best. It’s like mud and you can paint beautiful lines and it is easy to work with.
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Jinda Wurrunha Millstream Crossing Pool
The blue represents the river along the hill side of this special place. There is lots of Ochre found here; Red, Yellow, White and also Black. Millstream is a vrey special place. Many of our ancestors used to spend days just enjoying the coolness of the afternoon fishing, gathering and collecting bush food
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Wildflowers around Waterholes
This is my depiction of the waterholes which run through my Country, the Pilbara.
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The ‘Halo’ Wandjinas
Halo Wandjinas are our Rain Makers that protect and watch over our Gorges along the Gibb River Road, Ngarinyin, Worra Worra and Wunambul Tribes.
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Healing Journey (Janice Sandy)
I draw inspiration from the land, the sea, and the animals. The colours I use come from the fish and the creatures that live in our waters and Country. The patterns are inspired by their shapes, textures, and movements — reminding me that I am part of something greater. Our Country is full of different colours, patterns, and designs. These are passed down through our Old People, and they stay with us. I see my life journey through nature, and it keeps me grounded. Through my art, I connect back to Country — and in that connection, I find strength, healing, and hope.
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Pilbara Hills
In our country we have many hills of all different shapes and sizes. When driving through country at different times the colours change and some of the hills look like velvet in the evening and morning light .