Traditional Tiwi designs used in Pukumani ceremonies

Artist Cabrini Matalopia Wilson (1969)

Date1995

Object number00028906

NamePainting

MediumNatural ochre, cotton duck

Dimensions1900 x 290 mm, 0.3 kg
Display Dimensions: 1885 x 295 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection

Terms

DescriptionA painting by Cabrini Matalopia Wilson of Melville Island depicting traditional Tiwi designs used in Pukumani ceremonies. Dreaming: Tatuali (Shark)HistoryTiwi art is derived from the ceremonial body-painting and ornate decoration applied to funerary poles, Yimawitini bark-baskets and associated ritual objects made for the pukamani ceremony. This ceremony, held at the grave site approximately six months after burial, marks the conclusion of formal mourning and lifting of complex taboos associated with death. Traditionally the participants decorate themselves with a rich variety of ochre designs so as to conceal their true identity from malevolent mapurtiti, spirits of the dead. Thus Tiwi art generally avoids specific reference to totems,"dreamings",or stories connected with the paianeri (Creation Period). Typical of much Milikapiti Tiwi art is the use of a black ground indicating its link with the old ceremonial body-painting. The decorative motif mulpinyini amintiya pwanga (line and dots) forms a common basis for many of the abstract designs that have no specific meaning. These patterns may sometimes be used in combination with images of ritual objects such as pamijini (armbands), arawiikiri (ceremonial spears), or favourite bush tucker still hunted on Melville Island. SignificanceThese paintings relate to Pukumani mourning ceremony, which is performed to ensure the safe departure of the dead to their spirit home. It is the most important of the Tiwi ceremonies and according to mythology, Purukuparli was responsible for bringing death to the world. It was he who directed the Tiwi to perform their burial ceremonies, carve posts and to dance and sing.