Deutscher and Hackett

This painting is amongst the most significant works produced at the community-based art centre at Ampilatwatja in the Northern Territory. Established in 1999, Artists of Ampilatwatja are recognised for their unique landscapes.

Taking three months to complete, the painting is a collaboration between five of the senior Alyawarr women; Mavis Holmes Apetyarr, Lily Morton Akemarr, Michelle Holmes Apwerl, Lulu Teece Apetyarr and Daisy Moss Akemarr. Each artist has focused on aspects of country they considered important: 'bush medicine; the changing colour of the landscape; law and country; hunting and food gathering; teaching young people about country because it shows who we are.'

Reflecting a close relationship with the land, the painting references the changing colours of the region, reflecting changes in seasons and time of day. Bush medicine plants harmonise with sacred ghost gums. Bloodwood trees bearing 'sugar bag' are woven into the tapestry. Remnants of acacias, traditionally employed in the construction of shelters, are also depicted.

Artist Lulu Teece Apetyarr observes 'Law and country' women's law and men's law all in the earth and the rocks and the trees, painting my country is like walking over it again with my family hunting. Everything is important in country it is who we are and it is where we belong and our parents taught us how to know everything that moves and grows in it.

GRAEME MARSHALL