Wandjina, 1995

synthetic polymer paint on canvas

90 x 125 cm

$3,500

Provenance: Commissioned by psychologist for WA education department in Derby Private Collection SA Art Leven (formerly Cooee Art), Indigenous Fine Art Auction, Sydney, 8 June 2021, Lot 69 Adrian and Anne Newstead Collection
Artwork story: The Wandjina spirit is central to the cultural heritage and Dreamtime narratives of the Wunambal, Ngarinyin, and Worrora peoples of the Kimberley region in north-west Western Australia. Traditionally depicted in significant ceremonial locations, such as caves and rock formations along coastal and inland plateau areas, Wandjina images embody powerful rain-making spirits who regulate the seasonal renewal of land and resources. These iconic representations are typically frontal portraits created using ochres and clays. Characterised by large black eyes, a slit or beak-like nose, and notably lacking mouths, Wandjina figures are encircled by dots symbolising rain, blood, and water—the elemental blend of human and animal essence. Small brush strokes across the body often specifically represent rainfall, while features around the Wandjina’s head capture lightning and thunder associated with cyclonic wet seasons.

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synthetic polymer paint on canvas

90 x 125 cm

$3,500

Provenance: Commissioned by psychologist for WA education department in Derby Private Collection SA Art Leven (formerly Cooee Art), Indigenous Fine Art Auction, Sydney, 8 June 2021, Lot 69 Adrian and Anne Newstead Collection
Artwork story: The Wandjina spirit is central to the cultural heritage and Dreamtime narratives of the Wunambal, Ngarinyin, and Worrora peoples of the Kimberley region in north-west Western Australia. Traditionally depicted in significant ceremonial locations, such as caves and rock formations along coastal and inland plateau areas, Wandjina images embody powerful rain-making spirits who regulate the seasonal renewal of land and resources. These iconic representations are typically frontal portraits created using ochres and clays. Characterised by large black eyes, a slit or beak-like nose, and notably lacking mouths, Wandjina figures are encircled by dots symbolising rain, blood, and water—the elemental blend of human and animal essence. Small brush strokes across the body often specifically represent rainfall, while features around the Wandjina’s head capture lightning and thunder associated with cyclonic wet seasons.