Year Created:
2024
Story Behind the Piece:
Kunmanara, the Martu man, stands as a sentinel of the Dreaming, his form alive with layers of meaning and connection to Country. His figure is adorned with bold patterns and vivid bursts of colour—black, white, red, and orange—each telling its own tale. The deep black lines represent the timeless sandhills and waterholes that mark the desert landscape, while the fiery oranges and reds echo the sacred fires that carry the songs of his people to the stars.
The surrounding elements speak of Kunmanara’s world: the sun, a source of life and guidance; the concentric circles of waterholes and gathering places; and the ancestral beings who walk alongside him, their forms carved into the canvas. These figures are not merely decoration—they are reminders of the kinship between the Martu and the spirits of the land, sky, and stories.
Kunmanara’s face, framed by lines both ancient and modern, reflects his dual role as a keeper of tradition and a navigator of change. His presence is a call to honour the land, to listen to the wisdom of the elders, and to carry forward the stories that sustain the spirit of his people.
This piece is a celebration of the interconnectedness of life in the Western Desert, a vibrant portrayal of identity, heritage, and the enduring bond between the Martu and their Country.
Availability:
This artwork has been sold, but if your inspired by Kunmanara, let’s work together to create a piece that captures your vision, weaving themes of connection, culture, and resilience into your story. Reach out to start your journey.
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