Ngarrbek (Echidna) – Edition 16/20

(Echidna)Ngarrbek is the Kunwinjku word for echidna, the small mammal known as “spiny anteater” which is indigenous to Australia. Echidnas are one of only two species of monotremes in the world – a mammal that lays eggs. The other is the platypus. Echidnas eat ants and termites and despite such an unappealing diet have tasty flesh and are highly prized as “bush tucker”. In this painting the ngarrbek is depicted in “x-ray style” with internal organs showing as well as external features such as the stylised spikes. The ngarrbek is shown entering a termite mound in search of food.