Ngapa Jukurrpa by Sabrina Robertson 41x41cm 13200SR

Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) by Sabrina Nangala Robertson

Sabrina Nangala Robertson’s Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) presents a striking interpretation of the sacred Dreaming story linked to Mikanji, a typically dry creek west of Yuendumu. This narrative, centered on mulju (soakages) in the creek bed, holds deep cultural meaning for the Jangala/Jampijinpa men and Nangala/Nampijinpa women, the traditional custodians of this tale.

Sabrina’s artwork skillfully incorporates symbolic elements, such as yellow and blue/grey circles representing mulju and white tones that signify mangkurdu (cumulus and stratocumulus clouds) set against a rich deep red background that filters through, inviting the eye to travel.

Her approach blends the rich traditions of her heritage with a fresh, contemporary style, making her compositions both culturally significant and visually dynamic.

This Dreaming story recounts the journey of a rain ancestor from Puyurru, northwest of Yuendumu, to a mulju at Mikanji. At the creek, two blind women from the Nampijinpa skin group sat near the soakages. When the ancestor unleashed a storm, the women strained to see the sky, their tears falling as rain and creating an enduring spiritual bond with the land. Their spirits are believed to inhabit two ngapiri (river red gums) still standing near the soakage, embodying the story’s eternal connection to the landscape.

As the second eldest daughter of renowned artist Dorothy Napangardi and sister to Julie Nangala Robertson, Sabrina continues her family’s legacy with innovation and passion. Recently, she embraced an updated spelling of her surname, transitioning from "Robinson" to "Robertson," reflecting her evolving identity as an artist.

Sabrina’s Ngapa Jukurrpa masterfully bridges ancient storytelling with modern artistic expression, inviting viewers to explore the spiritual and cultural richness of Yuendumu’s sacred landscapes. Her work highlights the timeless beauty of Aboriginal traditions while offering a contemporary perspective on these enduring stories.