Mokuy Spirit

Artist Nawurapu Wunuŋmurra (1952 - 2018)

Date2015

Object number00054748

NameSculpture

MediumOchre on cotton wood

DimensionsOverall: 2385 × 150 × 100 mm, 3.3 kg

ClassificationsCeremonial artefact

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThe 36 Mokuy Spirits reflect the Yolŋu conception of life, that the spirit is eternal. We all have a spirit and once our bodies die that spirit’s journey continues. Ceremonies are still practiced that guide and protect that spirit’s journey to the reservoir of souls particular to that clan identity from which it emerged. The grief that people feel in death is equated in Yolŋu songs with the sadness at the departure of the Macassans when they leave Northeast Arnhem land on the south easterly Dhimurru wind of May/June. The imagery of the setting sun striking the clouds on the horizon and colouring them pink is like the departing spirit and equated with the red Prau sails disappearing over the horizon. A life is over. A season is finished. Families are separated.SignificanceThese 36 Mokuy Spirits are significant in relaying the connection and cyclical journey held within Yolnu culture and that the conception of life is that the spirit is eternal.