Lennie Murabura Lennie is a senior Bininj man born in Arnhem Land and raised purely in the traditional way. From a very early age his father taught him the art of hunting, spearing and preparing bush meat for the family. He has a very proficient hunting history and now as a grandfather he proudly teaches his grandsons in the same way. He speaks the old language (Kunwinkju and also other dialects from Arnhem, along with Kundjeihmi- the more modern language). His art is also very traditional and will showcase the animals, bush food and the sacred pictures of the ‘Djang’ or ‘Dreamtime’. Lennie has very distinct, fine lines that are recognised throughout the Kakadu region. The Ginga, a saltwater crocodile, is the totem animal to many indigenous people throughout western Arnhem Land and Kakadu. They are also a food source, though their hunting takes a lot of effort. Especially the old Gingas are highly respected by the locals, as they would rather try to move them instead of hunting them, in case they make their way into the locals territory. Nawarndak, the file snake, is an aquatic snake that can grow up to 2.5 metres in length and survives on a monthly snack of fish found in the Kakadu waterways. Considered a delicacy highly prized for its rich fat and eggs, Nawarndak is cooked over hot coals. Not an easy catch, they're generally collected when the water levels are low as they congregate around the banks and tree trunks along the water's edge to escape the heat of the day. However hunters need to be super cautious not to become someone else's dinner due to the high population of saltwater crocodiles cruising around the river systems in Kakadu. Yawk Yawk in Kunwok/Kunwinjku languages means a young woman, and also refers to the mermaid-like spirits that live in the deep water holes. When no one is looking they can transform their tails into legs so they can climb out of the water and forage for food. By the end of the Bangkerreng season, as the wet season ends, the Yawk Yawks metamorphose into dragonflies, which tells the dry season is starting. Dimensions: 76cm W x 118cm H | Acrylic and Ochre on Canvas This artwork has been purchased directly from an Aboriginal artist in Kakadu National Park or Arnhem Land. Ochre Art Gallery is committed to supporting artists, their families and the local community.
