My Country, 2008 by Kathleen Ngale 91x61cm 10576KN

My Country, 2008 by Kathleen Ngale: An Exquisite Depiction of Ahalpere

"My Country, 2008" by Kathleen Ngale is a stunning portrayal of her custodial land, Ahalpere, a sacred site for the anwekety (conkerberry or bush plum). This sweet black berry, growing from the Carissa lanceolata plant, matures from green to purple and finally black, starting from fragrant white flowers that bloom after rain. The ripe berries are collected, dried, and soaked in water before consumption.

Beyond its culinary use, the plant has medicinal properties. The orange inner bark from its roots is soaked in water to create a medicinal wash, particularly effective for skin and eye conditions. The shrub's thorns are used to treat warts.

Born around 1933, Kathleen Ngale was a senior law woman in Utopia, part of the Anmatyerr language group, and married to artist Paddy Motorbike. Living at the Camel Camp outstation with her large family, including her artist sisters Polly, Maisie, and Angeline Ngala, Kathleen was a senior custodian of the Bush Plum Dreaming.

Kathleen's artistic journey began with batik in the late 1970s, later transitioning to paint and canvas during the acrylics movement of the late 1980s. Her vibrant, colour-infused paintings of the Bush Plum Dreaming have garnered national and international recognition, including being a finalist in major art awards. Her work is part of significant collections, such as the National Gallery of Australia.

Kathleen's paintings, characterised by luminous clouds of colour, reflect the stages of the wild plum and celebrate the productivity and survival of her culture. Her later works showcase her deep knowledge and authority in her tribal ceremonial life, passing on cultural traditions to younger generations. Kathleen Ngale's legacy continues to shine through her celebrated and vibrant artworks, even after her passing in 2021.

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