Entwined

Entwined showcases the work of contemporary Yirrkala printmakers made in response to string figures collected and documented during the 1948 American-Australian Scientific Expedition to Arnhem Land. The string figures, made of kurrajong bark fibre, are often referred to as ‘string games’, but they are actually instructive tools to learn about Yolngu life.

Entwined features a long strand of kurrajong bark fibre made by the Bula’bula artists of Ramingining, wrapped around yekini (spindles), alongside a number of string figures from the collection of the South Australian Museum – made of plant-fibre but also human hair, animal fur and industrial materials. Together, they provide an historical context and demonstrate the ongoing practice, connection to and knowledge of working with plants.

Artists

Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre: Mulkun Wirrpanda, Dundiwuy 2 Munungurr/Wunungmurra, Gundimulk Wanambi, Dipililnga Marika, Birrpunu Yunupingu 2, Marrnyula Munungurr, Nyangungu Marawili, Djerrkngu Yunupinu, Dhundunga Mununggurr
Bula’bula Arts Aboriginal Corporation: Cecily Mopbarrmbrr, Daphne Banyawarra, Evonne Munuyngu, Joy Gadawarr, Julie Djulibing 1, Margaret Djarrbalabal, Mary Dhapalany 1, Melinda Gedjen, Robyn Djunginy