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c. 1937
Language Group:Anmatyerre
Country:Ilkawerne (El-go-an-na) , Utopia Region, North East of Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Medium:Acrylic on Canvas and Linen
Subjects:Ahakeye (Bush Plum) Dreaming, Arekwarr (Wild Pigeon) Dreaming, Atyetyart (Olden Day People) Story, Country, Men's Story, Young Man's Journey
Harold was a 'boss man' of Ilkawerne country, located south of the Utopia Region. In December 2000 and January 2001, Mbantua Gallery showcased Atyetyart stories for the first time, highlighting the men from this area. Harold was the primary storyteller of these Atyetyart stories - narratives about the 'olden day people,' as he referred to them. These stories had been passed down to him by his father. Harold believed that sharing stories through generations was essential for keeping them alive and ensuring the strength of the country. A few men from Ilkawerne, including his son Johnny Payne Ngale, were taught the symbolism, stories, songs, ceremonies and significance of these tales by Harold.
Harold was married to Doreen Payne, Lena Pwerle's daughter, and they had six children together. As an elder of Ilkawerne country, alongside elder Lindsay Bird Mpetyane, Harold had the responsibility of initiating other countrymen and actively teaching the stories and cultural lore of Ilkawerne. Known for his keen sense of humor and strong presence, Harold's natural leadership abilities were evident. In addition to his role as a storyteller, Harold was also a sculptor and painter, focusing on olden time stories and a select number of Dreaming stories he wished to share.
Harold paints the story of the wild pigeon, also known as arekwarr or arwekarr in the Anmatyerre language and it is connected to the ahakeye story. The ahakeye, called wild plum in English by Harold, is also known as the native currant or citrus (canthium attenuatum). These are both very important stories for Harold that belong to his country, Ilkawerne (El-go-an-na) . These stories, their songs, dances and symbols have been passed down to Harold from his father.
