Artwork Story
There are 7 artworks in this set, with a mix of sizes.
This group of paintings illustrates an Atyetyart story from the olden days, as told by Sammy Kunoth. The story recounts a time when a stranger entered their Country, leading to fear, conflict and a violent confrontation between two groups. Through a series of scenes, the paintings follow the events of the conflict, the destruction of camps and the eventual return to Country, where a new camp is established and people remain watchful.
As told by Sammy Kunoth:
1. We hide behind a tree, watching the stranger in our Country. 90cm x 60cm
2. We return to camp and tell everyone about the stranger. There might be big trouble! 60cm x 45cm
3. The stranger and his mob come and attack us. There is lots of fighting and killing, and they burn the humpy too. 30cm x 30cm
4. More fighting takes place, and they burn the trees around the cave before running away. 30cm x 30cm
5. Later, we look for them and find their camp. There is lots of fighting and killing, and we burn their humpies. 30cm x 30cm
6. We burn all their humpies. There are many dead people. 30cm x 30cm
7. 17cm x 97cm
a) We return to our Country.
b) We camp in the bush and don't return to the cave camp.
c) We make a new humpy.
d) We walk around, watching out.
e) We keep walking.
This style of storytelling through painting has sparked growing interest among younger Aboriginal men who are eager to learn more about the Atyetyart - the stories and knowledge of the old people.
