Emu Dreaming #2

   

This particular site of the Yankirri Jukurrpa, (emu Dreaming [Dromaius novaehollandiae]) is at Ngarlikurlangu, north of Yuendumu.

The 'yankirri' travelled to the rockhole at Ngarlikurangu to find water.

This Jukurrpa story belongs to Jangala/ Jampijinpa men and Nangala/Nampijinpa women.

In contemporary Walpiri paintings traditional iconography is used to represent the Jukurrpa, associated sites and other elements.

Emus are usually represented by their 'wirliya' (footprints), arrow-like shapes that show them walking around Ngarlikurlangu eating 'yakajirri' (bush raisin [Solanum centrale]).

In the time of the Jukurrpa there was a fight at Ngarlikiurlangu between a 'yankirri' ancestor and Wardilyka (Australian bustard [Ardeotis australis]) ancestors over sharing the 'yakajirri'.

There is also a dance for this Jukurrpa that is preformed during initiation ceremonies.

Artist: Lee Nangala Gallagher

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