This painting by Jeremiah relates to a place called Bukem, in Marlkawocountry. There is a paperbark tree (kunkod) on a small island right in the middle of a swamp area. No-one can walk through, the ground is too soft. The Old People used to throw spears from the edge of the swamp to the tree. Anyone who could throw a spear from the edge of the swamp and get it stuck in the tree would be seen as worthy of lots of wives, because he had shown he could hunt and support them. If the tree ever falls over, another one will grow in the same place. Two animals, ngalmangiyi (Long-necked turtle) and ngard (the northern snapping turtle) show the presence of the Rainbow Serpent there, and nobody takes the turtles from that site. Ngalyod, the Rainbow Serpent, resides below the island and protects the sacred tree.
This painting needs to be framed. It’s also being sent direct from the artist at a remote art centre, Injalak Arts, in the top end. Please note there is only one mail plane a week that takes the artwork to Gunbalanya. The tracking information is then received a week later when the mail plane returns so often the paintings are delivered before we receive the tracking information. Please expect a slightly longer wait for this very special artwork to arrive.