WACP3/24 – JANE TINMARIE-YALUNGA

– 41 x 36 // Printed Area 20 x 20

This artwork shares the story of my father, Rover Thomas & the old lady spirit who visited him in his dreams. This sacred connection emerged after a cyclone that left a lasting mark on our community. In those dreams, the old lady appeared to share a vital warning: the cyclone represented the threat to our culture if he didn’t take immediate action. This pivotal moment unlocked something profound within him, leading to visions of the Juwari (the ‘Devil’ Spirit), who gifted him his Joonba, known as the ‘Gurirr Gurirr.’

Long before he set foot on Gija country, my father had an intrinsic knowledge of the land, revealed to him through dreams. The Joonba embodies the journey he undertook, and it is this journey that we perform today.

As Rover began to share the knowledge he received, the significance of this Joonba resonated throughout our community, igniting corroborees & celebrations that united people in joy and remembrance. Over the years, this ceremonial dance became a cornerstone of Warmun and performed to other communities, fostering a profound sense of unity & cultural pride.

Through this artwork, I honour my father’s legacy & the spiritual connection that guides our traditions. The Old Lady & The Serpent captures the essence of our shared stories, reminding us of the power of dreams & the enduring spirit of our culture