Minyma Tingari, 2000 (91x91cm) by Barbara Reid 4479BR

"Minyma Tingari, 2000" (91x91cm) by Barbara Napangarti Reid beautifully illustrates the sacred ‘Tingari Cycle,’ a spiritual blend of story, song, and ceremony. This painting narrates the journeys of Tingari ancestors who traversed vast landscapes, conducting rituals that shaped the land formations of specific sites.

Barbara’s work depicts Tingari women with their digging sticks, symbolized by U shapes. The larger U shapes represent windbreaks used by the women. This detailed iconography also reflects the body paint worn by Ngaanyatjarra women during Tingari ceremonies, emphasising the continuity of cultural practices.

The Tingari Cycle is central to the teachings of the post-initiatory stage and explains contemporary customs, making Barbara’s painting a vital cultural artifact. Her use of traditional symbols and vibrant colors captures the essence of the Tingari stories and their connection to the land.

"Minyma Tingari, 2000" by Barbara Napangarti Reid is not only a stunning artwork but also a crucial medium for preserving and passing down the sacred Tingari narratives, ensuring that the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Ngaanyatjarra people remains alive for future generations.