Aboriginal Painting by Karen Bird Ngale

Magnificent aboriginal painting by Karen Bird Ngale, Alpar (Rat Tail Plant), Acrylic on canvas

Alpar (Rat Tail Plant) - Acrylic on canvas

Dimensions: 93 x 85 cm

Certificate of Authenticity

One of One Artwork

Karen Bird Ngale is a distinguished Aboriginal artist from the Utopia region of Central Australia, celebrated for her vibrant depictions of Dreamtime stories and cultural traditions.

Born in 1984 in the Utopia region, Karen is the youngest daughter of renowned Utopian artist and senior elder Lindsay Bird Mpetyane. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in artistic expression, she was immersed in the rich tapestry of Anmatyerre culture from an early age. Under the guidance of senior women, Karen learned the stories, songs, and dances associated with ceremonies, which profoundly influence her artwork. 

Designs in this painting represent elements of the Alpar Dreaming Story whereby the dry seeds of alpar play a significant role. In the olden days, the Aboriginal women of Ilkawerne country would collect these seeds, sometimes soak them in water until swollen or cooked in hot coals, and then grind them into a powder that was used for making damper (bread). This practice is not as habitual now due to readymade bread, however the story is continually taught to the younger ones and ceremonies are carried out to ensure its productivity.