Ngapa Jukurrpa by Sabrina Nangala Robertson 83x36cm 8352SR

Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) by Sabrina Nangala Robertson

Sabrina Nangala Robertson’s Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) is a remarkable visual interpretation of a sacred Dreaming story tied to Mikanji, a dry watercourse located west of Yuendumu. Using striking yellow and white lines, Sabrina symbolises the falling raindrops as they touch the sandy creek bed, bringing this ancient narrative to life through a contemporary lens.

This Dreaming carries deep cultural importance for the Jangala/Jampijinpa men and Nangala/Nampijinpa women, who are the traditional custodians of the story. It recounts the journey of a rain ancestor traveling from Puyurru, northwest of Yuendumu, to a mulju (soakage) in the Mikanji creek. At the soakage, two blind women of the Nampijinpa skin group sat as a mighty storm broke overhead. Straining their eyes to see the sky, their tears transformed into rain, forging a powerful spiritual bond with the land. The women’s spirits are believed to reside in two ngapiri (river red gums) standing near the soakage to this day.

Sabrina, the second eldest daughter of the renowned artist Dorothy Napangardi and sister of Julie Nangala Robertson, continues her family’s artistic legacy with a fresh perspective. Recently, she updated the spelling of her surname from "Robinson" to "Robertson," embracing her evolving identity while honouring her roots.

This breathtaking artwork highlights Sabrina’s ability to merge traditional Aboriginal storytelling with modern artistry. Ngapa Jukurrpa provides a profound connection to the landscapes of Yuendumu, offering viewers an opportunity to explore its beauty and spirituality through the lens of an acclaimed contemporary artist.