Djerrk (Bush String Bag) by Evonne Munuyngu of Bula'bula Arts 

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION 

Through the traditional knowledge of the Yolŋu Nation, weaving has a strong history within the Ramingining community and this exhibition presents contemporary woven works by several female artists from Bula’bula Arts. Included are works of cultural ceremonial significance as well as pieces that evolved from explorations in weaving at the Langarra Bush Gallery, a three day camp that provided artists the opportunity to experiment with varied techniques and showcase new skills.

Bula’bula Arts would like to thank the Kaurna People for hosting Yolŋu work on their Land.

ABOUT THE WORK

Djerrk are primarily made from the bark of Balgurr (Red-flowered Kurrajong - Brachychiton Megaphyllus) but sometimes Banyan tree (Ficus Virens) and Cocky Apple tree (Planchonia Careya). Sections of the tree are cut, and depending on the size, whole portions or part portions from the trunk. The inner bark is beaten or chewed to soften, then dyed with natural bush dyes. Once softened and dyed, parts of the fibre are separated into fine strips then rolled on the thigh to create a rope otherwise known as bush string. The bush string is then woven and knotted to create a djerrk (string bag). Djerrk were used for every day utilitarian purposes, particularly collecting bush foods such as bältji (yam).

Material: Balgurr Kurrajong – Brachychiton Populneus, natural dyes
Dimensions: 400 x 360

Due to the handmade nature of the products dimensions may vary on individual pieces.

THIS PIECE IS ON DISPLAY AS PART OF THE BUYU (WEAVING) FROM RAMINGINING EXHIBITION 

THE EXHIBITION RUNS UNTIL NOVEMBER 10th. ANY SOLD WORK WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION OR DELIVERY IN THE WEEKS FOLLOWING THIS DATE.

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Handmade in Australia.