Ceremonies for Rockhole Dreaming 2001 by Ningura Napurrula 36x122cm Cat 6655NN

" Ceremonies for Rockhole Dreaming 2001" by Ningura Napurrula features arc shapes symbolising body paint designs worn by women during Water Dreaming ceremonies. These ceremonies are associated with rockholes on Ningura's traditional country, Tjukurla in the Gibson Desert, Western Australia, depicted by circles in the artwork. The two long shapes represent dancing boards, while the U-shapes depict women dancing.

Ningura Napurrula, a distinguished Pintupi-speaking Indigenous Australian artist, vividly captures her birthplace near Tjukurla in the Gibson Desert, Western Australia. This region holds deep cultural significance due to its connection with the Tingari Cycle from the Jukurrpa (Creation Era). Born in 1938 in the Kiwirrkurra Community and passing in 2013, Ningura’s dynamic and richly detailed compositions have gained international acclaim.

Her artistic journey began in 1996 when she, alongside other elderly women from Kintore and Kiwirrkurra, started painting for Papunya Tula Artists. Her first solo exhibition was held in 2000 with William Mora Aboriginal Art, followed by numerous group shows. Ningura's works are distinguished by their heavy layers of acrylic paint and vibrant, dynamic designs.