Two Sisters by Timothy Djandjomerr

Timothy Djandjomerr

As with many Aboriginal artists, Timothy Djandjomerr paints the stories he was told as a small child. He paints with 'grass' which is the stem of a freshwater reed that has many fibres inside. These are prepared to the thickness required for his Skin Group. The thickness of the lines and the way they are applied are very important - besides Skin, they tell the Clan and Country of the artist. 

These two Mimi Spirits are ethereal beings which are depicted in rock art across the Kakadu landscape. For many, the Mimi spirits may seem scary, but it is important to remember they were the Dreaming ancestors. They are believed to have taught the Bininj/Mungguy people essential survival skills, such as hunting, cooking, and toolmaking. As well as many cultural traditions, such as dancing and singing. This is perhaps why you can often find Mimis to be painted in action, such as hunting, dancing or preparing bush tucker. Bininj of Western Arnhem Land say that the paintings of Mimi spirits were never painted by humans, but by Mimis themselves. 

Dimensions: 51cm W x 77cm H

This artwork has been purchased directly from an Aboriginal artist in Kakadu National Park or Arnhem Land. Ochre Art Gallery is committed to supporting artists, their families and the local community.