Bilby Dreaming by Dorothy Napangardi 198x122cm

Beyond Mina Mina (Bilby Dreaming), 2006 by Dorothy Napangardi

"Beyond Mina Mina (Bilby Dreaming)," created in 2006 by Dorothy Napangardi, is part of a series showcased at the 2008 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art under the title "My Father's Country ...Beyond Mina Mina."

Inspiration and Cultural Significance

This series of paintings is inspired by knowledge passed down to Dorothy by her father, Paddy Japanangka Lewis, and his sister, Mitjili Napanangka Gibson. The artworks depict Dorothy's actual conception site—a small claypan associated with the Bilby Dreaming, located southwest of the two large claypans of Mina Mina, which is Napangardi’s custodial country.

The Bilby's Cultural Role

Bilbies have coexisted with Aboriginal Australians for over 60,000 years. However, European settlement has pushed the Bilby to the brink of extinction. Initially, there were two species of Bilby, but the Lesser Bilby (Macrotis leucura) is believed to have become extinct in the early 1950s. Today, only the Greater Bilby remains, commonly referred to simply as "the Bilby."

Artistic Evolution and Style

Before her renowned minimalist black-and-white works, Dorothy was celebrated for her vibrant use of colour. In this series, she revisits her colourful roots, incorporating classic roundels and concentric circles with intersecting lines. This return to vibrant colours reflects her beginnings and honours her father and paternal auntie, both impressive artists in their own right.

Versatile Perspective

This painting offers an aerial perspective of the country and can be displayed in either a landscape or vertical format.

Featured Recognition

"Beyond Mina Mina (Bilby Dreaming)" is featured on page 44 of the monograph "Honouring and Remembering the Art and Life of Dorothy Napangardi, 1987-2013," which commemorates her significant contributions to art and culture.