Biḏ’yunawuy miṉḏirr (painted conical basket)

'Biḏi’yunawuy miṉḏirr (painted conical basket)' 2021 by Helen Ganalmirriwuy Garrawurra is inspired by historical works in institutional collections, particularly 'Bathi (basket)' c1950s (accession number IA142.1962) held in the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Biḏi’yun is to apply colour, typically by painting or rubbing. Rubbing natural pigments into fibre objects or fixing pigments onto the surface of weavings with plant sap was the predominant approach until the late 20th century when it was largely replaced by immersion dyeing to achieve a range of colours. In this work Ganalmirriwuy acknowledges historical styles, designs and approaches, while exploring her love of bold colour.
This text draws heavily on the artwork certificate provided by Milingimbi Art and Culture which was written by Salome Harris based on information provided by Helen Galamirriwuy Garrawurra and Margaret Rarru Garrawurra.