Painted shell
Date1960s
Object number00055502
NameShell
Mediumsynthetic polymer paint on baler shell
DimensionsOverall: 145 × 335 × 220 mm, 1488 g
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection
DescriptionA painted baler shell by Dick Nangabarra featuring depicions of turtle, fish and a dugong on a background of cross-hatching.HistoryThe Warnindilyakwa Aboriginal people are the traditional owners of the Groote Eylandt archipelago region and are referred to by their language name, Anindilyakwa. Cultural traditions, knowledge and skills are still practiced in this community and are passed on to the younger Anindilyakwa generations by their families. Painting and weaving skills are taught and the region is known for a unique style of dash paintings which also feature a distinct black background.
Marine life are common motifs of these works and speak of the strong ties to the ocean that exist throughout the Groote Eylandt archipelago.
SignificanceThis painted shell by Dick Nangabarra, based at Bartalumba Bay on the north coast of the island of Groote Eylandt, shows the cultural and practical significance of marine life to the Anindilyakwa.
