Naru 2007 by Spider Snell Kalbybidi, 90x90cm Cat 13019SK

Naru 2007 by Spider Kalbybidi depicts Spider's landscape, the country where he belongs. Naru is the place where Wati Kutjarra men stopped in the dreamtime, and it is the site where Spider was initiated into manhood. Spider says, "This is where they make me man, Spider. We been walking around but that boys country now." The landscape has an abundance of mayi (bush tucker) amongst the tali (sand dunes).

Spider was a formidable cultural figure, having been initiated through a series of ceremonies in the Great Sandy Desert during World War II. He possessed powers that are difficult to translate into English or a Western worldview—the ability to move invisibly across the country, heal maladies, and communicate with spirits.

Highly respected among his people, Spider was known for his extensive knowledge of bush culture.

The provenance of this painting is Short St Gallery #10965