Shirley (Yumala) Collins
Spinifex & Emu Country, 2021
Mixed Media, translucent fabric with loose open weave, acrylics, polymer, adhesive & natural fibre of raffia
39cm x 22cm x 12cm
Inspired by My Country of Mt. Isa outback, of the spinifex on Country and the colours of the dry harsh lands, I have created a Cooliman shape that is indicative of our traditional design. It is a functional piece that I have recreated in the form of a contemporary artefact. This vessel was used by my ancestors to carry the baby in. It was usually made from the bark of a tree. Also different shapes were used to collect seeds/ seasonal plants and it had a variety of other uses.
