Tingari Cycle, 2004 by Dorothy Napangardi, 92x122cm

Tingari 2004 by Dorothy Napangardi: A Profound Connection to Ancestral Lands

In the 2004 painting Tingari , esteemed Aboriginal artist Dorothy Napangardi offers an intimate portrayal of her "conception site"—the sacred location where her mother first felt her move in the womb, symbolising the spirit of the land entering the body. This site holds significant importance in the Bilby Dreaming, and those who knew Dorothy often likened her gentle nature to the softness of the bilby.

Dorothy's father imparted to her the songs and stories associated with this country. Before significant events, she would often depict classic iconography, using painting as a form of quiet reflection, allowing her to immerse herself in her heritage.

In 2004, as she prepared to attend a large gathering in Lajamanu, located in the northern part of the extensive Warlpiri homelands, Dorothy painted this piece in the classic Tingari style, singing the short song cycles throughout the process.

The artwork is one of two -painted at the same time, that serve as both a physical and spiritual map. Due to the secretive and sacred nature of the Tingari Cycle events, detailed descriptions are limited.

This painting is featured on page 46 of the monograph Honouring and Remembering the Art and Life of Dorothy Napangardi, 1987–2013.

Please explore the accompanying images: the first provides a close-up view of the painting, followed by full views and a photograph of the artist with her completed work.