The artist has painted a Mimih spirit hunting. According to the Kunwinjku people of western Arnhem Land, Mimihs were the original spirit beings and taught Aboriginal people many of the skills they needed to survive in the bush along with ceremonies, dance and song. These spirits continue to live in rocks, trees and caves but are rarely seen by humans. They are frequently seen in the rock art of Arnhem Land as small, dynamic figures. They are usually shown with hunting weapons such as spears, woomeras, stone axes and digging sticks. Also often depicted are some of the spoils of the day – kangaroo, file snake, long yams, cheeky yams, and bush potato.

Size 41 x 61 cm | Medium Paper | Catalogue # 2495-22 | Year 2022

Artist  William Djawirda Manakgu

William Manakgu is the son of Solomon Manakgu and the well known weaver Anne Gumurdul. His brother Vincent Manakgu is also a painter. He is a traditional owner for Coopers Creek (Mangardubu) and Kubirdbu. William calls Kunbarllanjnja (Gunbalanya) karrardwarrekenh (mother land). Andrew Manakgu calls him korlonj (son). William is known for his intricate full rarrk paintings on bark and Arches paper.

further details

Size 41 x 61 cm
Medium  Paper
Catalogue # 2495-22
Year 2022