'Palma '08 by Sonia Kurarra, 30x59cm, Cat 10590SK

"Palma '08" by Sonia Kurarra depicts the rich life of the Fitzroy River, known as Martuwarra, which flows through Noonkanbah where Sonia lives. The painting highlights the presence of Kalpurtu, a creator serpent-type being, residing in rock holes and swimming around the Palma (creeks) and Wakiri (pandanus trees) that grow along the river.

Sonia’s painting vividly captures the aquatic life of the river, including various fish such as barramundi (Parlka), catfish, brim, sharks (Nganku), swordfish (Wirritunany), and stingrays. These species thrive in the waters long after floods recede. The painting illustrates barramundi swimming on the water's surface and resting in rock holes when tired. These rock holes are crucial habitats for barramundi in the river.

Born by a billabong at Noonkanbah community, Sonia’s parents were Walmajarri people who settled by the Fitzroy River. Sonia has spent most of her life at Noonkanbah and has a deep connection to the river. A dedicated artist, Sonia also worked as a teacher's aide, facilitating art projects with local children. Her art reflects her intimate relationship with her homeland, showcasing motifs of river life such as barramundi, brim, tortoise, stingray, pandanus trees, and the river itself.