Traditional Tiwi Culture placed special significance on the Pukumani (funeral) ceremony. Mourners are decorated using natural ochres to disguise themselves from the spirit of the deceased and song and dance is performed to honour the dead. Yirrinkiripwoja (bodypaint) is the source of many contemporary Tiwi designs and performance of the pukumani as ritual helps to reinvigorate the imagery. The shortening of the word to Pwoja - also refers to 'best'.

Jilamara Arts & Crafts Association is an indigenous owned art centre located in Milikapiti on Melville Island, which is one of the Tiwi Islands, 80 km to the north of Darwin. Artists at the centre have made a significant contribution to contemporary indigenous art in Australia since the association was established in 1989.

Please note: This artwork can be purchased online, but if you prefer to view it in person at our North Sydney store, please contact us via chat or email at info@koskela.com.au. We can make arrangements to transfer the artwork to our store, although please keep in mind that this process may take up to 24 hours.

Show