Women gathering Bush Tucker by June Sultan, 12x34cm FJ020JS

"Women Gathering Bush Tucker" by June Sultan beautifully portrays the traditional Aboriginal practice of collecting bush food. On the back of the canvas, the artist has handwritten a description of the bush tucker depicted, which includes sultanas, honey ants, and witchetty grubs.

In the painting, women are symbolized by U shapes, shown beside their gathering bowls (coolamons) and digging sticks. This vivid representation highlights the essential role of women in sourcing and preparing food, reflecting their deep connection to the land and their cultural heritage.

June Sultan, a member of the Kaytetye clan from Barrow Creek in the Northern Territory, comes from a family rich in artistic talent. Her family includes musicians and painters who have profoundly influenced her creative journey. Sultan's painting not only captures the diversity and nutritional value of bush tucker but also celebrates the traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. Her work preserves and honors the cultural practices of the Aboriginal people, showcasing their enduring legacy and the importance of community and natural resources in sustaining their way of life. Through her art, June Sultan continues to celebrate and document the rich heritage of the Kaytetye clan and the broader Aboriginal community.