Women with their carrying bowls, sitting near the campfire by Joan Sultan, 15x34cm FJ503JoS

"Women with Their Carrying Bowls, Sitting Near the Campfire" by Joan Sultan masterfully uses classic traditional iconography, with rich ochre tones highlighting the scene. In this Aboriginal artwork, women are symbolised by U-shapes, representing the marks left by sitting people from an aerial view. Their carrying bowls, known as coolamons, are depicted as oval shapes, while the campfire is represented by a central circle.

The back of the canvas features the artist’s handwritten full title and a detailed description of the iconography. Joan Sultan, hailing from a family of talented artists including musicians and painters, found her passion for painting through the encouragement of her brother, the accomplished painter Reg Sultan.

Joan's work is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, reflecting the traditional elements of Aboriginal art. The use of U-shapes, coolamons, and the central campfire circle showcases her connection to her ancestry and her dedication to preserving and sharing these cultural symbols. Her brother Reg Sultan’s influence and support played a crucial role in her artistic journey, inspiring her to embrace her talent and contribute to the rich tapestry of Aboriginal art. Joan Sultan's artwork is a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving nature of Indigenous Australian art.