Awelye (Women's Ceremony), 2008 by Rosie Bird Mpetyane, 90x90cm

Awelye (Women's Ceremony), 2008 by Rosie Bird Mpetyane intricately captures the fluidity and linearity of traditional body paint designs applied during women’s ceremonies. These designs, carefully painted on the upper bodies of the participants, hold deep cultural significance. Prepared using natural materials like ash, charcoal, and ochre, the painting process can be lengthy. As designs are applied, women sing Dreaming songs, and some perform ceremonial dances, known as Awelye cycles. The ceremony begins with participants coating their bodies with animal fat or vegetable oil, which facilitates the application and eventual removal of the ground powders. The intricate symbols are sometimes painted with flat sticks or by hand, reflecting traditional methods passed down through generations.

Rosie Bird Mpetyane’s connection to art runs deep within her family. She is the daughter of artists Paddy and Eileen Bird and granddaughter of Ada Bird Petyarre, a respected senior artist from Utopia. Married to Clifford Tilmouth with two children, Rosie continues to live in the Utopia region, where she learns the stories, songs, and dances of her country, Ilkawerne. Her artistic journey reflects the continuous evolution of her style, shaped by the rich cultural heritage and wisdom of her ancestors.