Ngalyipi (Snake Vine) 2001 by Judy Watson 122x122cm

Ngalyipi (Snake Vine Dreaming), 2001, by renowned Aboriginal artist Judy Napangardi Watson, captures the sacred Mina Mina, a ceremonial site west of Yuendumu in the Tanami Desert. This striking landscape, dominated by salt lakes, claypan soakages, and sandhills, holds deep cultural significance for Napangardi and Napanangka women, who are the custodians of this land.

The painting tells the Dreaming story of a group of women traveling east, gathering bush foods and collecting ngalyipi (snake vine), while performing ceremonies along their journey. The ngalyipi ( Tinospora smilacina ) grows along the trunks and branches of kurrkara (Desert Oak, Allocasuarina decaisneana ), and is a sacred vine for Napangardi and Napanangka women. It is used in ceremonies, as a ceremonial wrap, a strap for carrying parrajas (wooden bowls) laden with bush tucker, and even as a tourniquet for headaches.

Judy Watson Napangardi, taught by her elder sister Maggie Napangardi Watson, developed her distinctive artistic style while working with Warlukurlangu Artists. Her depictions of Mina Mina Dreaming reflect her profound cultural heritage and storytelling traditions. She also shared a close bond with her cousin and sister, Dorothy Napangardi, further enriching her art with Warlpiri narratives.

Recognised as one of Australia’s 50 most collectible artists by Australian Art Collector in 2007, Judy’s works are showcased in major collections worldwide. Ngalyipi (Snake Vine Dreaming), 2001, epitomizes her legacy, blending cultural depth with artistic brilliance in contemporary Aboriginal art.