Life, Spirit and Death, 1990 by Linda Syddick Napaltjarri 132x82cm Cat 836LSN

In this painting Linda depicts the subjects of Life, Spirit and Death all of which are associated with the life cycle of every human being. The Spirit in particular is of profound significance to Aboriginal people as it ensures ongoing association with future generations.

To the bottom of the painting the artist depicts the symbols of man and woman and the naturalistic images of the Rainbow Snake all of which are associated with the procreation of life.

In the centre we see symbols associated with the returning spirit of an elder. When an Aboriginal dies, their spirit returns to the place it came from. This “borning place” is the specific part of the landscape where the person was conceived. The boomerang symbolises the returning spirit. The crook represents age and wisdom of the elder while the figure of eight and roundel denote the elder’s “borning” place and ceremonial site respectively.

At the top of the painting the subject of death is depicted in the form of three U-shapes. Each U-shape represents a deceased person. Death of an Aboriginal person generally results in either a burial or cremation followed by a long period of mourning.

This painting is packed and freighted on the stretcher frame, safely protected by MDF board.