Marvel at the Expressive Aboriginal Art - A Vision of the Ancient Heritage
This painting has many layers of built-up acrylics with a high-quality varnish and painted sides it comes with a wire stretched across the back and the canvas on the backside is taped up with protective paper also with a certificate of authenticity with is adhered to the back of the artwork
“We look to the “Morning Star, the first light, and remember Baiyami and Gyian the Whale’s journey from the Mirrabooka (the Milky Way) to spread the kinship system among all living things - as Baiyami descended upon the empty land he crushed the mountain of Yango and suddenly a light appeared in the eastern sky, it was the birth of the Morning Star” (Darkinjung ElderGavi Duncan) The new world was born then Baiyami said to Gyian, "This will be your Dreaming place. You shall reign over these lands and waters, my friend. Your kin will forever live in these sacred realms on Earth. Go and give what I have given to you, the kinship of life. Gyian went into the lands taking with him the spirit of Baiyami.
Baiyami ascended back to the Mirrabooka. During the Dreamtime period, Gyian intermingled with other creatures, passing on the Laws of Baiyami. He later changed form from a bird of the land to live as he does today in the ocean as a whale. This was the birth of Gyian on Earth.
This painting depicts the creation story of the world and the kinship system, as told by the Darkinjung people of Australia.
In the foreground, the majestic Gyian the Whale soars through the starry expanse of the Mirrabooka (Milky Way), his body shimmering with cosmic hues. Beside him stands the radiant Baiyami, the Sky Father, his presence exuding divine power and wisdom. Below them lies the Earth, a vast and unformed landscape shrouded in darkness. As Baiyami descends, his touch awakens the land, bringing forth mountains, rivers, and teeming life The birth of the Morning Star, a symbol of hope and new beginnings, illuminates the scene as Gyian dives into the newly formed oceans, carrying the sacred Laws of Baiyami with him.
The painting's layered textures and rich colors evoke the interconnectedness of all living things. The ripples of Gyian's movement echo in the swirling clouds, while the vibrant greens and blues of the Earth mirror the celestial tapestry above. This visual connection underscores the message of the story: that we are all part of a vast and interconnected web of life, each creature bound to one another by the shared breath of Baiyami.
Overall, this painting is a visually stunning and symbolically rich representation of a powerful creation myth. It serves as a reminder of our deep connection to the natural world and the responsibility we have to each other and the planet we share "The Whale’s Journey: The Awakening 11" is a stunning and thought-provoking artwork that would be a welcome addition to any home or collection.
THE WHALES JOURNEY THE AWAKENING 11
Ready to hang
Artwork Details
Medium | Mixed Media, Canvas, Ready to hang |
Dimensions | 21.7in (W) x 43.3in (H) x 0.8in (D) |
18,700 Customer Reviews |
As a member of the Indigenous Art Code Bluethumb is proud to have established direct partnerships with some of Australia's most respected First Nation's artists and art centres.
Return it for free within 7 days
Artwork Description
Artist Bio
I was born in Cunnamulla, a town in southwestern Queensland, Australia. My yumba, or traditional home, is the land of the Barunggam tribe, one of the many Aboriginal groups that have lived in this region for thousands of years. Discover the Mystical World of Aboriginal Art
Uncover the Secrets of Aboriginal Art - Rich in Symbolism and Storytelling.
The rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture, woven with the vibrant threads of thousands of years of history, is a profound testament to the enduring spirit of Australia's Indigenous peoples. The Barunggam tribe, part of the expansive Wakka Wakka language group, has long been custodians of the land, sharing the Darling Downs with neighboring clans and groups, each with their own unique stories and traditions. These names—Barunggam, Keinjan, Giabal, Jarowair, Bigambal, Kambuwal, Jagara—resonate with the essence of identity, community, and belonging.
In the heart of this cultural mosaic, art emerges as a powerful form of expression, a bridge between past and present, a canvas where the Dreamtime stretches out its ancient roots and flourishes anew. For an artist born of this heritage, art is not merely a hobby; it is a sacred duty, a means of preserving and sharing the wisdom of ancestors. It is a voice for the silent whispers of the land, the stories of the Dreamtime that dance around the fire, igniting the imagination with tales of creation, spirituality, and the deep, abiding connection to the earth.
My drawing inspiration comes from the land of the Barunggam and the teachings of a wise grandad, I paint not just images, but emotions, memories, and the very soul of a people. There is no need for a specific theme when every brush stroke is a word in a life story, every color a note in a song of identity. The art created is a legacy, a message to the world that says, "This is who I am, this is where I come from, and this is the story I have to tell." It is a proud declaration of heritage, a celebration of culture, and a heartfelt tribute to the generations that have walked the land before.
In a world where the past often fades into the shadows of progress, such art stands as a beacon, reminding us all of the enduring power of tradition and the unbreakable bonds of community. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the timeless nature of storytelling through art. For those who come across these works, they offer a window into the soul of the Barunggam, the Wakka Wakka, and all the clans of the Darling Downs—a chance to see the world through the eyes of those who have cherished it for millennia.