"Awelye for Bush Medicine Leaves 2002" by Abie Kemarre Loy 152x91cm

"Awelye for Bush Medicine Leaves 2002" by Abie Kemarre Loy masterfully captures the stages of Titye leaves’ growth through vibrant colours and intricate linearity. The artwork highlights the medicinal value of the leaves, which are traditionally harvested while young, boiled with fat, and applied to the skin as a muscle tonic. As the leaves mature, their hues evolve, a transformation Loy skillfully explores in this striking piece.

Awelye is a deeply symbolic art form practiced by Aboriginal women in the Utopia region, representing not just artistic creativity but also a profound cultural responsibility. For thousands of years, Indigenous women have performed Awelye body painting, one of the world's oldest continuous art traditions. Contemporary artists like Loy have translated this ancient practice onto canvas, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage behind the form.

This particular artwork is also a reflection of Loy’s personal connection to her altyerre, or dreaming, passed down through her father. Loy's aunt, Rita Pwerle Loy, ensures that she maintains her cultural obligations, safeguarding the sacred knowledge and traditions that are integral to the practice of Awelye, making this artwork both visually compelling and culturally significant.