c. 1968
Language Group:Anmatyerre
Country:Ahalpere, Utopia Region, North East of Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Medium:Acrylic on Canvas
Subjects:Ahakeye (Bush Plum) Dreaming
Andy paints the story of the Ahakeye, known as the bush plum in English and also referred to as the native currant or citrus. This story holds great significance for Andy as it is deeply rooted in his country. The songs, dances and symbols have been passed down to him from his father. Andy is the son of the renowned artist Kathleen Ngale (dec) and Motorbike Paddy, and his sister, Elizabeth Mpetyane, is also a painter.
Andy paints the story of the Ahakeye. This a very important story for Andy that belongs to his country, Ahalpere. The ahakeye, called bush plum in English by Andy, 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.