According to the Kunwinjku people of West Arnhem Land, Mimih spirits were the original spirit beings, who taught Aboriginal people many of the skills they needed to survive in the bush. They also taught aspects of ceremony. Mimih spirits are believed to inhabit the rocky escarpments around Gunbalanya but because they are extremely timid, they are rarely seen by humans. They are frequently depicted in the rock art of Arnhem Land as small, dynamic figures, often shown with a range of hunting tools such as spears, spear throwers, dilly bags and fire sticks.

Size 41 x 61 cm | Medium Paper | Catalogue # 843-21 | Year 2021

Artist  Owen Naborlhborlh

Owen Naborlhborlh is the son of Michael Naborlhborlh, one of Injalak Arts original screenprinters, and Paulette Bumarda. Owen is the Chairperson of Injalak Arts board of Directors and is a strong young leader. Owen is the lead singer in Injalak band, singing traditional songs and contemporary rock songs in Kunwinjku. Owen is also an excellent traditional dancer and he has passed on this skill to his young sons.

Like his father, Owen’s painting style is characterized by the precision of his rarrk and hatching technique, as well as his paired back depiction of the subjects he paints. Owen is also a fantastic rock art guide, he is extremely knowledgable about the painting traditions of West Arnhem.

further details

Size 41 x 61 cm
Medium  Paper
Catalogue # 843-21
Year 2021