Minyma Tingari, 2000 by Barbara Reid

"Minyma Tingari (Women’s Dreaming), 2000" by Barbara Napangarti Reid is a mesmerising portrayal of the sacred Tingari Cycle, seamlessly blending story, song, and ceremony. Measuring 91x91cm, this painting captures the journeys of Tingari ancestors who traveled vast landscapes, performing rituals that shaped the land's unique formations. They arrived at Tjukurla, the artist's birthplace, and conducted ceremonies honouring the Bush Apple ancestors.

The painting represents the ceremonial site, while the U-shapes symbolise the women of the Napangarti/Napanangka kinship groups, custodians of this Dreaming. Barbara also depicts their dancing boards and digging sticks, as well as traditional combs used to create human hair belts worn during ceremonies. The branches in the artwork represent the Bush Apple tree, integral to the rituals.

The iconography in "Minyma Tingari (Women’s Dreaming)" reflects the cultural continuity of Ngaanyatjarra traditions. The body paint patterns are vital for post-initiatory teachings and provide explanations for contemporary customs. Barbara's minimalistic yet powerful approach combines traditional symbols with a sense of inner peace, creating a visual narrative that feels both ancient and contemporary.

"Minyma Tingari (Women’s Dreaming), 2000" serves as a vital cultural artifact, preserving and honoring the sacred narratives and traditions of the Ngaanyatjarra people. Barbara Napangarti Reid's work beautifully captures the essence of the Tingari stories and their profound connection to the land.