The wira is a smaller version of the piti or wooden bowl which is a traditional woman’s carrying vessel for food and water. It is used in many ways including as a ladle for collecting water and for digging with. Contemporary artists use walka, patterns burnt into the wood with wire heated on a wood fire. These relate Tjukurpa, stories about the Tjukuritja (Creation Ancestors) and the activities which shaped the land, the people and their law. Many of the details of Tjukurpa are restricted to senior custodians so it is not possible to describe the full story behind the walka.
As most contemporary Maruku artists use walka, patterns burnt into the wood with wire heated on a wood fire, this work by Nancy Carnegie is an increasingly rare example of women’s work.
Nancy Carnegie is minyma Yarnangu, a senior Aboriginal woman from the Central and Western Deserts. Her skills have been passed on through the Tjukurpa, the Law and way of life governing her country. As well as carving with Maruku Arts, Nancy has worked with Kayili Artists in Patjarr, Warakurna Artists and Tjanpi Desert Weavers. She is currently the chairperson for Patjarr community and represents Patjarr’s interests as a director with Warakurna Artists.
Desert Mob is presented annually in Mparntwe | Alice Springs on Arrernte Country.
On behalf of Desart’s staff and art centre members, the Executive Committee humbly and respectfully acknowledge the Arrernte Apmereke Artweye (Traditional Owners) and Kwertengerle (Traditional Managers) of Mparntwe.
Desart respectfully advises Aboriginal readers that this website may contain names, images and artworks of people who have passed away.
