Rainbow Men II

Artist Abie Jangala (1919-2002)

DateJanuary 2005

Object number00056324

NameEtching

MediumPaper, ink

DimensionsOverall: 544 × 783 mm
Image: 242 × 643 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by Michael Kershaw

Terms

DescriptionThis work is by Abie Jangala (1919-2002), a highly respected artist and elder of the Warlpiri community in the Northern Territory, and is entitled Rainbow Men II. The elements of thunder, lightning and rain underpin the belief system of the nomadic Warlpiri people and this is reflected in the print. Abie Jangala began painting in 1983 and his work is noted for its striking dense white dotting over a base colour and simple bold lines. When asked about his approach to painting he said that it was the way his father told him, as 'he comes to me in dreams'.SignificanceThis print by Abie Jangala, entitled Rainbow Men II, provides insights into the belief systems of his community, the Warlpiri from the Northern Territory. He was a highly respected elder and a man of great ritual authority and his work reflects the Warlpiri belief system which, as a nomadic community, places great importance on the elements of thunder, lightning and rain.

The print's provenance to the Michael Kershaw collection further adds to its significance as, in his position as managing director of the Australian Art Network, he has been responsible for the development and promotion of Indigenous art for over 25 years. Through the publication and distribution of fine art prints by First Nations artists, Kershaw has contributed to broader recognition of their work in Australia and internationally.