Lawrence Pennington

2019, acrylic on linen
1370 x 1100 mm
Cat No. 19-289

Selected: Men from Spinifex Country
Spinifex Arts Project

Lawrence Pennington has painted Pukara, the home to the Wati Kutjara Tjukurpa. Pukara is depicted by the large circular motif centrally located in the work. The numerous smaller circles represent the many other rock holes in the vicinity where water can be found. Many of these are not permanent water sources, only holding water for a short time after rain. Pukara however is a permanent large water hole guarded by the Two Men, a father and son serpent. These men can be unpredictable and dangerous so upmost caution must be used when approaching this site. It holds a very strong men's Tjukurpa and is therefore m ill-millpa (sacred). The public outline of the story is recited in hushed tones signifying this is not a place to be trifled with.