Ngapa Jukurrpa by Sabrina Nangala Robertson 61x61cm 7963SR

Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) by Sabrina Nangala Robertson

Sabrina Nangala Robertson’s Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) is a stunning depiction of a Dreaming narrative connected to Mikanji, a typically dry watercourse west of Yuendumu. Sabrina incorporates in her artwork mangkurdu (cumulus and stratocumulus clouds) symbolised by the white clusters. Her unique style balances cultural authenticity with a contemporary artistic approach, making her work both timeless and innovative.

This story highlights the significance of mulju (soakages) in the creek bed and holds deep cultural meaning for the Jangala/Jampijinpa men and Nangala/Nampijinpa women who are the custodians of this sacred knowledge.

The Dreaming recounts the journey of a rain ancestor traveling from Puyurru, northwest of Yuendumu, to a mulju in the Mikanji creek. By the soakages, two blind women of the Nampijinpa skin group were seated. When the rain ancestor brought a powerful storm to Mikanji, the women strained to see the sky, their tears falling as rain and forming a lasting bond with the land. Their spirits remain present, represented by two ngapiri (river red gums) growing near the soakage.

The second eldest daughter of iconic artist Dorothy Napangardi and sister to Julie Nangala Robertson, Sabrina continues her family’s artistic legacy. Recently, she updated the spelling of her surname from "Robinson" to "Robertson," reflecting her evolving identity as an artist.

This evocative work demonstrates Sabrina’s ability to merge ancestral stories with modern artistry, offering audiences an intimate glimpse into the landscapes and cultural heritage of the Yuendumu region.