We are at last being recognised as the indigenous people of this country whom must share in its future. This is not a day of national mourning for us. We must leave history behind us and look forward.
Galarrwuy YunupinguRead
When we paint, whether it is on our bodies for ceremony or on bark or canvas for the market, we're not just painting for fun or profit, we're painting as we always have done to demonstrate our continuing link with our country and the rights and responsibilities we have to it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Painting is a means of expressing our connection to the land and our responsibilities as its stewards.
In this quote, Galarrwuy Yunupingu emphasizes that painting transcends mere enjoyment or commerce; it is a profound act rooted in cultural identity and a responsibility towards one’s country. The act of painting serves as a medium to convey a deep, enduring relationship with the land, reflecting both rights and duties to nurture and honor it.
Themes
ArtPaintingIdentityResponsibilityCultureConnection
In practice
Example use cases
During an art exhibition, I quoted this to emphasize the deeper meaning behind indigenous art.
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