c. 1980
Language Group:Anmatyerre
Country:Ahalpere, Utopia Region, North East of Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Medium:Acrylic on Canvas and Linen
Subjects:Ahakeye (Bush Plum) Dreaming, Awelye (Women's Ceremony), Bird, Painted Dancer
Elizabeth began painting for Mbantua Gallery in 2006. Her works represent the Dreamtime story of Ahakeye (bush plum) which is found in the desert. Elizabeth's father is Motorbike Paddy who also paints the Ahakeye. Not speaking much English, Elizabeth was encouraged to take up painting by her female family members including her mother, renowned artist Kathleen Ngale. Elizabeth resides in the Utopia Region and still participates in traditional ways of life and ceremonies to promote the Dreamtime of bush plum.
Elizabeth paints the story of the Ahakeye. This a very important story for Elizabeth that belongs to her country, Ahalpere. The ahakeye, called bush plum in English by Elizabeth, is also known as the native currant or citrus. This shrub produces small white flowers, deep green citrus-like leaves and the ahakeye, which are black when ripe and very small. This fruit is favoured for its sweet taste and can be reconstituted in water if dry.
