Pinyama - Wild Apple

Date1994

Object number00029116

NameLinocut

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsSheet: 700 x 503 mm
Image: 535 x 433 mm
Overall: 700 x 503 mm, 1 mm, 0.1 kg
Display Dimensions: 700 x 503 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis coloured linocut print features three wild apples on a sprig in heavy black outline. The red bush apple (Syzygium suborbiculare) is a common bush tucker in northern Australia. A rare form occurs in the coastal areas of the Tiwi Islands with pink fruit called pinyama, the pink beach apple. The fruit are produced during Jamutakari, the wet season, and are one of the most important Tiwi bush foods. Mother's Country: Wangurruwu (Marluwu), Bathurst Island Father's Country: Munupi, Melville Island clan (SkinGroup): Yikikini (white cockatoo) Dreaming: Jarrikarlani (turtle) Working At: Munupi, Pularumpi, Melville IslandHistoryReppie has worked at the Munupi Art Centre since its beginnings in 1985, producing intricate fabric and t-shirt designs. Reppie Orsto has based her painting on traditional designs as taught to her by her father Declan Apuatimi, a well known artist. Reppie also spent some time in 1989 producing designs for Territoriana label in Darwin. Reppie participated in the first printmaking workshop in Canberra in 1990 and in June 1992 she represented her community at the Munupi exhibition in Paris. In August of 1994 Reppie attended at the invitation of the Canadian Government, the exhibition 'Epama Epam', representing indigenous artists from Australia. This exhibition coincided with the Commonwealth Games, Victoria, Canada.SignificanceMelville Island is the second largest Island on Australia's coast. Its coast is fringed with dense mangrove forest hosting a feast of bush foods. Although many modern ways have been adapted, life on their two islands follows tradition always. Men still hunt for bush foods - turtles, stingrays, wild cattle and fish, while women hunt possums, and collect crabs, shell fish and berries.Traditional foods are a popular theme of many Tiwi paintings.