Nintiringanyi, Kunpuringanyi (Learning, Becoming strong)

Nintiringanyi, Kunpuringanyi is a visual representation of intergenerational weaving knowledge, shared through kami (grandmothers), ngunytju (mothers), untal(pa) (daughters), kangkuru (sisters) and kuntili and ngunytju (aunties). Kaltukatjara weavers used colour and material to create intricate pattern and structure, transforming simple steel frames into relief-style wall art. The collaborative installations are a celebration of skills, individual weaving styles and the important activity and connection that is deeply rooted in the art practice of NPY women; being together out bush, collecting grass, visiting Country, hunting, teaching, learning and earning. “I’m following the tracks my mother left. I was learning before from my mother Mrs. Kulitja, but now I am passing these skills on to others. This helps us keep going, and not to be lost” – Selina Kulitja

 

Jezebel Hopkins belongs to the Ngaanyatjarra language group and lives in Kaltukatjara (Docker River) in the Northern Territory. She is a strong weaver, learning everything she knows from weavers in her community. Jezebel also enjoys making fibre sculptures whenever Tjanpi weaving workshops are held in her home community.

 

Vanessa Calma belongs to the Pitantjatjarra language group and lives in Kaltukatjara (Docker River) in the Northern Territory. Vanessa is the daughter of long-time Tjanpi weaver Noreen Bronson but learnt her basket making skills from her grandmother Rosalind Yibardi. “It’s good to make baskets, it’s something to do that makes me feel happy!”

 

Technical assistance by Ruby Henderson-Leconte and Jade Brockley.