Patrick, Patricia and their extended family took me to a lookout on my first night.
|
A waterhole Patrick and family introduced me to.
I went back there a few times ...
Doris often talks of the happy times as a young kungka swimming in the waterholes around Ikuntji. Having seen the children swimming there I can see why.
Looking in the other direction at sunset.
The Ikuntji Swans. I went to a 'Lightning Cup' at Papunya, where JJ had in mind that I would be the Official Photographer. JJ had not actually told me that he had that in mind, but I turned up with my camera and he sent me out to take team photographs exactly as he had planned. I also had the gig as time keeper for a while. The afternoon light was stunning. The young men were so charming, talking with them back in Ikuntji, as they looked at the photos, teased each other, and asked for copies on memory sticks. I was doing this in dark late into Thursday night, before leaving for Papunya and Alice Springs on Friday. |
"All the skills were on display". Boots optional. |
Sun Shower at half time. |
Ulumbaru in the background
JJ, Jackson, and someone photo-bombing. |
Back at Papunya Tjupi Art Cooperative
With Doris Bush. Doris had painted a Nulla Nulla for me, which is pretty special. Nulla Nullas are used for dances (Doris gave me a demo), to represent digging sticks, and, Doris adds with a wicked smile "killing husbands". |
Helen Puckey at the centre has helped the women produce great work, with more requests for exhibitions, including overseas, than the women can supply. |
Doris Bush Nungurrayi, Candy Nakamarra, Narlie Nakamarra. |
Papunya Tjupi Arts Website
I also spent time at the Ikuntji Art Centre, who have different styles, but did not get around to taking photos .... The have great art and a very cool website.
Blacky. Father of Jack The Dog. At the Papunya Store.Blacky is a great dog. If Jack takes after him he will be doing well.Funny thing was I was missing a car wash sponge at one stage. Blacky, the extremely placid and obedient dog, was enjoying pulling it apart: a passion passed on to Jack. |
Back at the waterhole, on my last afternoon. |
Looking North from the waterhole. Ulumburu range. Papunya is on the other side. I will be back in June. |