Pirlinyanu - Water Dreaming by Julie Nangala Robertson 30x25cm 11165JR

Julie Nangala Robertson masterfully depicts the Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) in her exquisite painting, "Pirlinyanu Site - Water Dreaming."

This small yet impactful piece can be paired with its sister painting, Catalogue 11166JR, and features a white background that enhances its visual appeal.

Robertson captures the movement of rain falling on the rocky outcrop and the rock holes of Pirlinyanu, a crucial site in the Tanami Desert known for its significant waterholes and abundant bush tucker. The painting reflects the deep traditional knowledge of the Warlpiri people, who understand which rocks to move to access fresh water from the natural wells, a critical survival skill in the desert landscape. This knowledge, part of the Water Dreaming, is passed down patrilineally and through ritual teachings from aunts to nieces, particularly within the Nampijinpa and Nangala sub-section groups.

Using an aerial perspective and a distinctive monochromatic palette, Robertson creates extraordinary optical brilliance by varying dot sizes and building up specific shapes or reference points through repeated dotting.

Julie the winner of the prestigious Telstra Aboriginal Art Award in the Best Painting category in August 2023.

Recently, Julie Nangala Robertson, the eldest daughter of Dorothy Napangardi Robinson, corrected the spelling of her surname from Robinson to Robertson, aligning with her relatives in Yuendumu. This adjustment honors her father's original intent, as Windy had two wives, Rene Robinson and Dorothy Robinson.

Painting will be freighted stretched canvas on frame with MDF board for protection