Karntakurlangu Jukurrpa, 2008 by Dorothy Napangardi 76x91cm 13807DN

"Karntakurlangu Jukurrpa, 2008" by internationally renowned artist Dorothy Napangardi is a captivating work that embodies her signature matrix designs, narrating the ancestral women’s journey across Mina Mina. Using a striking palette of purple and yellow ochre against a brown background, Napangardi depicts the sacred women's site, illustrating their dance across the terrain—through the soakages, salt crustations, spinifex clumps, and sandhills formed after the rainwater recedes.

"Karntakurlangu" translates from Warlpiri to "Belonging to Women," reflecting the significance of Mina Mina as a sacred women’s site located near the Northern Territory's western border, close to Lake MacKay. This region features vast claypans that fill with water after rain and is surrounded by towering desert oak trees. According to Dreaming stories, Napangardi and Napanangka women (aunties of the Napangardi kinship) sang and danced the country into existence, passing traditional knowledge from aunt to niece.

This extraordinary piece exemplifies Napangardi’s mastery in blending cultural heritage with contemporary artistic expression. It highlights the deeply spiritual connection between women, the land, and the Dreaming. "Karntakurlangu Jukurrpa, 2008" is featured on page 38 of the monograph Honouring and Remembering the Art and Life of Dorothy Napangardi, 1987-2013 , offering collectors a deeper insight into her legacy.

View close-up images and the full painting to appreciate the intricate details of Napangardi's work and her profound connection to Mina Mina.