Tingari Cycle by Barney Campbell Tjakamarra 91x91cm

Barney Campbell Tjakamarra, a senior law man and revered elder, is an internationally renowned artist celebrated for his profound depictions of the Tingari Cycle. Born circa 1930, Tjakamarra's work frequently explores this significant theme, capturing the essence of the sacred rituals and sites associated with the Tingari Cycle.

In "Tingari Cycle (2005)," Tjakamarra illustrates the sacred sites where young boys underwent initiation ceremonies. These events are part of the Tingari Cycle, involving secretive and sacred rituals from the Dreaming creation era. The Tingari men, ancestral figures, traveled across vast stretches of land, performing rituals and shaping significant sites. Accompanied by novices and usually followed by Tingari women, their journeys and adventures are immortalized in song cycles. These narratives are crucial for the teachings of post-initiatory youths and provide explanations for contemporary customs.

Tjakamarra's art, created while singing to the Ancestors in his native Pintupi/Luritja language, captures these profound cultural stories and laws. His paintings are held in prestigious collections, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Through his artwork, Tjakamarra has cemented his legacy in Indigenous art and cultural preservation, ensuring that the rich traditions of his people continue to be celebrated and understood.