Awelye Ahakeye by Tanya Bird Mpetyane (SOLD)

Awelye is a term used to describe women's ceremonies and all that it encompasses such as ceremonial body paint designs. The patterns and designs in this painting are influenced by these. Ahakeye are little currants that grow on the Canthium attenuatum shrub which grows about 3m high. This shrub produces small white flowers, deep green citrus-like leaves, and the currents which are black when ripe and very small. This fruit is favoured for its sweet taste and can be reconstituted in water if dry. There is a sacred Dreaming story for Ahakeye belonging to Tanya and the people of her country. Also in this painting, women are depicted by U shaped symbols with ceremonial sticks and a coolamon (carved wooden bowl).