Gloria Petyarre
Bush Medicine
ASAAGP2444
2008
177x98cm
Acrylic paints on linen
| Description: | This painting depicts leaves of a special plant that are used for medical purposes. Women go to different places around her country, Utopia, to collect such leaves. Once selected the leaves are boiled to extract resin and Kangaroo fat is mixed through, creating a paste that can be stored in the bush for extended periods. The medicine is used to heal cuts, bites, burns, rashes and also acts as an insect repellant.
Women perform the bush medicine ceremony at different times of the year. In preparation for the ceremony the women paint their bodies with special markings for that particular ceremony.
Gloria works were first acclaimed through batik exhibitions during the 1970’s. Gloria’s latest works depict her dreamings, Mountain Devil Lizard, Pencil Yam, Emu, Bean and Grass Seed. Gloria’s paints her dreamings by adapting body paint designs with bold colours and linear patterns, in a highly innovative way. This uniqueness makes her one of the leading contemporary Utopian artists.
Gloria has traveled abroad extensively with her art, with major exhibitions throughout Europe and the United States. Gloria is the niece of Emily Kngwarreye and one of seven artistic sisters, including acclaimed Kathleen Petyarre, Nancy Petyarre, Violet Petyarre and Ada Bird. Gloria is featured extensively in major collections around the world. The National Gallery of Australia, the Robert Holmes a' Court Collection, Museum of Victoria and the Powerhouse Museum. |
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