Cecina Mardjuwa

Cecina Mardjuwa, born in 1970, is a renowned artist known but only for her bark paintings but for her intricate and delicate fishtrap weaving. She belongs to the Burrara people, originally from the Blyth and Cadell River regions of Central and North-central Arnhem Land, many of whom now reside further west in Maningrida township at the mouth of the Liverpool River.

Cultural and Geographic Background

• Born: 1970
• People: Burrara
• Regions: Blyth and Cadell Rivers, now residing in Maningrida township, Arnhem Land
• Art Centre: Maningrida Arts & Culture

Artistic Expertise While Cecina is also involved in bark painting, she is best known for her excellence in fibre art, particularly her fish traps made from jungle vine ( Malaisia scandens ). The traditional techniques and cultural significance of her work highlight her deep connection to her heritage and the environment.

Types of Fish Traps

1. Mandjabu (Large Fish Trap):
   • Made from the jungle vine ( Malaisia scandens ).
   • Used in tidal reaches of creeks to catch large fish.
   • Constructed primarily by men, but small children assist with the inner trap.
2. Manyilk Mandjabu (Small Fish Trap):
   • Made from grass ( cyperus javanicus ).
   • Used in freshwater flowing creeks to catch smaller fish and freshwater prawns.

Construction Process

• Materials: Jungle vine ( mirlarl ), water, kurrajong-burdage string, hibiscus-bardainy rings.
• Method:
  • Soak the vine in water overnight to soften it.
  • Weave the vine to create the fish trap's shape, making rings to maintain the structure.
  • Use kurrajong string to attach the hibiscus rings and tie the conical end.
  • Takes three to four weeks to complete a fish trap.

Traditional Use

• Fish traps and net fences ( mun-dirra ) are used in both saltwater and freshwater.
• Fish net fences are placed across rivers and creeks, with the fish trap in the middle.
• Additional barriers like sticks, rocks, mud, and grass are used to direct fish into the trap.
• Fish species caught include saltwater barramundi ( rajarrra ), freshwater barramundi ( janambal ), small black freshwater catfish ( buliya ), bonefish ( an-guwirrpiya ), and sand bass ( dalakan ).

Cultural Significance Cecina Mardjuwa’s work is a testament to the rich traditions and practical skills of the Burrara people. Her fish traps are not only functional but also serve as a cultural link to her ancestors, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of her community.

Legacy Through her art, Cecina Mardjuwa preserves and promotes the traditional practices of the Burrara people. Her works are celebrated for their craftsmanship and cultural importance, making her a prominent figure in the Australian Indigenous art scene