Deutscher and Hackett

This painting is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Delmore Gallery which states: 'These lines relate to the random growth pattern of the Anooralya yam. This plant produces a long thin tuber that matures as the parent plant on the earth's surface is in decline. One important sign of the plant's maturity, is a crack, or cracks, in the soil's surface. This indicates where to dig for the yam tuber.' As well, the lines link in with the ritual of body painting during "awelye", or ceremonial proceedings. Kngwarreye's previous work shows them underscoring her magnificent demonstrations of brilliance with colour. Not only did the lines give structure to these works, but made a fundamental statement of their ceremonial validity. Emily Kngwarreye believes that such ritual ensures the continuing life cycle of this and other desert life forms, and that her knowledge is intrinsic to this. Her return to this gestural form is a statement of what to her is of greatest importance.