Artwork Story
There are 8 artworks in this set, with each piece measuring 30 x 30cm.
This group of paintings tells an Atyetyart story from the olden days, describing a time of tension between two tribes that leads to a large battle. Through a series of scenes, the paintings follow the events leading up to the conflict and the impact it has on the people involved.
1. This painting shows two tribes preparing for a large conflict. At a nearby small camp, giant spirit birds suddenly appear and attack some of the people. Others are frightened and run from their shelters.
2. In this scene, men from the camp are positioned among the rocky hills, watching carefully for the enemy tribe to approach. Above them, the spirit birds circle high in the sky.
3. An old man and his wife are attacked and killed by an enemy scout using a boomerang. Their young son witnesses the attack from a distance.
4. The young boy wanders away from the scene to find the rest of his tribe so he can tell them what has happened.
5. Night falls as warriors begin to gather, preparing themselves for the coming battle.
6. The following morning the warriors wait in readiness, watching and listening for the arrival of the enemy tribe.
7. The enemy tribe finally arrives and a large spear fight breaks out. Many people are killed during the fierce battle.
8. The fighting continues, but eventually the enemy tribe begins to retreat as the conflict comes to an end.
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.
