Yawkyawk Spirit
Dimensions
2600 x 1500 x 60 mm
Materials
Weaving: pandanus woven around a bamboo frame
Artist statement
‘My artwork represents the mythical Yawkyawk or “young woman being spirit”. The female water spirit is perhaps the most enigmatic mythological theme for the Kuninjku people. Sometimes compared to the European notion of mermaids, they exist as spiritual beings living in freshwater streams and rockpools, particularly those in the stone country. The Yawkyawk is usually depicted with the tail of a fish, the face of a young woman and long hair.’
Yawkyawk Spirit
Anniebell Marrngamarrnga
Dimensions
2600 x 1500 x 60 mm
Materials
Weaving: pandanus woven around a bamboo frame
Artist statement
‘My artwork represents the mythical Yawkyawk or “young woman being spirit”. The female water spirit is perhaps the most enigmatic mythological theme for the Kuninjku people. Sometimes compared to the European notion of mermaids, they exist as spiritual beings living in freshwater streams and rockpools, particularly those in the stone country. The Yawkyawk is usually depicted with the tail of a fish, the face of a young woman and long hair.’