Thecla Bernadette Puruntatameri Tiwi, b. 1971
Yikwani, 2023
ochre on canvas
180 x 120 cm
70 7/8 x 47 1/4 in
70 7/8 x 47 1/4 in
MM7091
Yikwani is the Tiwi name for fire. An important tool in past and present Tiwi culture, fire is still used for cooking and warmth, especially during the cooler Dry Season...
Yikwani is the Tiwi name for fire. An important tool in past and present Tiwi culture, fire is still used for cooking and warmth, especially during the cooler Dry Season nights. It is also used for burning off overgrown vegetation following the heavy 'Wet Season' rains (which covers the period of late Spring through to early Autumn), regenerating and encouraging new growth and aiding in hunting trips.