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

 

Selina Kulitja belongs to the Pitjantjatjara language group who lives between the communities of Mutitjulu and Kaltukatjara (Docker River) in the Northern Territory. She is a strong cultural woman and spokesperson for her region, working as a land management advisor with the Katiti-Petermann Indigenous Protected Area and as a health worker in her local community clinic.

 

Sally Bronson Yibardi belongs to the Pitantjatjarra language group, and lives in Kaltukatjara (Docker River) in the Northern Territory. Sally is the daughter of Rosalind Yibardi, a prominent Tjanpi weaver and learnt to weave baskets from her. Sally has inherited her mother’s wonderful sense of colour and character which can be seen in her Tjanpi works.

 

Technical assistance by Ruby Henderson-Leconte and Jade Brockley.