Deutscher and Hackett

This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Delmore Gallery that states: ‘The Anooralya Yam plant that is Emily Kngwarreye’s main totem and story has characteristics that make it an important food staple in the arid lands north-east of Alice Springs. Its ability to keep relatively fresh after picking and to keep well underground is highly valued. The yam flower contains seeds (kame) that can be processed into a seed cake and the flower as a whole is a preferred food of the emu. As for the yam, “it always comes back” a very telling statement in the harsh desert environment.

Emily’s colours indicate an abundance of food after good summer rains, the yellow dramatically indicating a strong presence of the kame daisy. This work demonstrates the importance of the daisy, with pacey double-dipping brushwork celebrating the presence of food underground. Ceremony has ensured that good seasons do return and Emily believes that her ritual role has aided this and the she “grows up” the food and human sources of her country.’