Malliera Ceremonies, 2002 by Dr George Tjapaltjarri 198x122cm Cat 7133DG

Recognised at birth as a Ngankari, Dr George had an upbringing preparing him for his noble role of bush doctor and healer and lawman. Ngankari or 'Clever Men' have a very important place in Aboriginal culture. Not only to they heal the sick but are key keepers of knowledge and ceremony.

The bold mark makings contained in his artwork reflects confidence and the powerful depth of his cultural knowledge. The lines have many meanings, including depicting either those of ritual scarification or the body paint applied to the youths in ceremony. This initiation is the first stage of the lifetime commitment to traditional law and the introduction to an understanding of the Tingari Cycle.

Since events associated with the Tingari Cycle are of a secret and sacred nature few details are given. Generally, the Tingari are a group of men of the Dreaming (creation) era who traveled over vast stretches of the country, performing rituals and creating and shaping particular sites as they sang the world into existence.