New generation
2021
Medium
earth pigments and recycled print toner on Stringybark (Eucalyptus sp.)
Measurements
169.0 × 75.0 cm
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Barbara Hay and the Hay Family, 2021
© The Artist, Buku Larrŋgay Mulka, NT and Alcaston Gallery, Melbourne
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
Using a combination of natural earth pigments and reclaimed toner ink (ground polyester) from discarded printer cartridges, in this work Djerrkŋu recalls a mermaid dream that her father had while her mother was pregnant with her. The painting tells the story of the artist’s conception as a spiritual mermaid. Stories about mermaids appear in myths around the world, but the Yolŋu mermaid, which appears in both freshwater and saltwater, is lesser known.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Yirrkala, Northern Territory
Accession Number
2021.780
Department
First Nations Australia