Ngambi (Stone Spearheads)

Djardi Ashley

1950

2007

Rittharrngu

Ramingining, Central Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

Ochre on Arches Paper

Ngambi (Stone Spearheads), Wagilag Dreaming

Djardi Ashley was born in 1950 in the bush at the top of the Glyde River, in the land known as Djilpin country, his grandmother's country. He spent his early years in Milingimbi, where he attended school. He learned to paint under the guidance of his father and the father of artist Bob Bunungurr. Djardi's art is deeply rooted in the cultural and natural landscapes of his homeland, with major themes revolving around the stone quarries that produced stone spearheads for Arnhem Land and the Wagilag Dreaming, a significant narrative of his clan.

For most of his life, Djardi worked as a stockman across the Northern Territory and Arnhem Land and retired from this in 1982. In 1978, Djardi married Dorothy Djukululu, the sister of renowned artist George Milpurrurru. Five years later the couple relocated to the Mulgurrum outstation, where Djardi devoted himself to painting. His primary focus became the totemic Ngambi stone spearheads, crafted at a site called Ngilipitji southeast of Ramingining, which are linked to the Wagilag Sisters' creation story.

Djardi's paintings are known for their sophisticated interlocking triangular designs, forming complex compositions that represent the spearheads. He has explained the cultural significance of his work and his art serves as a means of preserving and passing down his cultural heritage.

Djardi's work has received extensive recognition, both domestically and internationally. In 1987, he won First Prize at the National Aboriginal Art Award, held by the NT Museum of Arts and Sciences in Darwin. Djardi continued to paint and contribute to the preservation of his culture until his passing in 2007. His legacy endures through his art, which continues to inspire and educate future generations.