Wild Flowers, 2007 by Lucky Morton Kngwarreye 122x182cm Cat 10478LM

"Wild Flowers, 2007" by Lucky Morton Kngwarreye draws inspiration from the landscapes of Ngkwarlerlaneme and Arnkawenyerr in Utopia, south east of Alice Springs. In these regions, the Ilyarn or Ilyarnayt, a variety of Acacia (wattle), flourishes. This plant is treasured for its edible grubs, known as ilyarnayt, and seeds (ntang ilyarnayt), which are ground into a paste to make damper, a traditional type of bread.

The small, yellow, ball-shaped flowers of the Acacia are frequently depicted by artists from Ngkwarlerlaneme and Arnkawenyerr in the northern Utopia region. This wildflower is an integral part of Dreamtime stories belonging to these countries, symbolizing their cultural significance.

Born in 1952 at MacDonald Downs Station in Utopia, Lucky Morton Kngwarreye is the eldest daughter of Mary Morton Kemarre, a senior law woman. Her artistic journey began in the late 1970s with the Batik Group, formed by Rodney Gooch under CAAMA and sponsored by The Holmes à Court Collection. This initiative showcased her work both in Australia and internationally.

Transitioning to painting in 1988-89, Lucky continued to depict Dreamtime stories of her heritage. Her works are included in numerous exhibitions, including the Holmes à Court Collection. Lucky's childhood was spent at a bush school near Hatcher’s Creek and Kurrajong Camp in Utopia. She has attended Bachelor College in Alice Springs, traveling to Darwin and Tenant Creek for further education.