Amwekety (Bush Plum), 1998 by Gracie Morton, 60x38cm, Cat 2727GM

"Amwekety (Bush Plum), 1998" by Gracie Morton employs an aerial perspective to depict the summer landscape when Bush Plum (Amwekety) seeds split open, scattering husks across the ground. Gracie’s delicate dotting and color variations bring this scene to life, capturing the vibrant beauty of her traditional country, Mosquito Bore, located 263 km north of Alice Springs.

The Bush Plum is a prostrate plant that bursts into colour after rain but quickly disintegrates in the hot summer months. This small fruit, with black seeds, can be eaten raw or cooked into bush damper and is extremely high in vitamin C.

Gracie Morton is a senior traditional custodian of the Altyerre (Dreaming) and the vast expanse of related country. The responsibility for the Bush Plum Dreaming has been passed down to her from her father and aunt, ensuring that she preserves its traditions in accordance with traditional law.

Gracie’s work vividly reflects the cultural and natural significance of the Bush Plum Dreaming, demonstrating her deep connection to her ancestral land and the rich traditions passed down through generations

Belonging to the Alyawarre language group, Gracie Morton Pwerle upholds her cultural heritage through her art. Her surname appears in various spellings (Pwerle, Pwerl, Purle, or Ngale) due to different linguistic interpretations.