AWELYE, 1995
EMILY KAME KNGWARREYE
synthetic polymer paint on canvas
150.0 x 122.0 cm
signed verso: Emily
inscribed verso: artist's name and Delmore Gallery cat. 95L40
Private Collection, Donald Holt, Delmore Downs Station, Alice Springs
This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Delmore Gallery
As though a conductor commanding a baton, Emily puts line to canvas like an abbreviated signature. Her decisive use of line is as simultaneously grand in its sparsity, as well as presenting as a concerto of masterfully wrought space.
Awelye reflects the time of year in December when ceremony ominates all family life in the area. Body painting is intrinsic to all ceremony and in this painting, Emily makes abstract reference to this ceremonial practice. Ceremony reinforces knowledge about such staple bush foods through narrative, as well as teaching basic social codes and obligations. Through such paintings, Emily serves to reinforce her knowledge to those who follow her.
ANNABEL HOLT AND JANET HOLT