Hand-Painted Noongar Art

Artist: Christine Winmar

Region: Perth, WA

Size: 165 x 72 cm

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Christine Winmar is a Noongar woman, born in Midland, Western Australia, in 1965. Her skin name is ‘Allawah’, which is an Aboriginal term meaning "Stay here. " Christine received instruction in painting from her father, a distinguished artist and didgeridoo craftsman, who imparted many aspects and techniques of Noongar art that are evident in her current work. Subsequently, she began to experiment with various styles and techniques, bolstered by the support of her family and friends. Additionally, Christine spent several years in the Kimberley region, where she further honed her skills by integrating techniques utilised by Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.

 By 1997, Christine was selling her artworks through an Aboriginal art gallery in Perth. Her inaugural joint exhibition occurred shortly thereafter, in 2005, when she, alongside fellow artists Mingi May Barnes, Geoff Lindsey, and Tjinanginy, showcased their works in Perth and Cottesloe. 

 In 2009, Christine presented her work along with several other artists in the “Colours of Australia” exhibition held in both Perth and San Francisco.

 Christine engages with diverse media, including canvas, pottery, wood, and glass. She frequently employs dot techniques to create vibrant and colourful patterns.

The meanings behind her artwork

Often referred to as native companions or Australian cranes, these elegant grey birds are renowned for their impressive dancing displays, which seem to serve as both a source of enjoyment and part of their mating rituals. The Aboriginal people have celebrated their fluid movements through dance. Female vocal birds add a distinctive trumpeting sound to their performances. They move gracefully across the plains, and the essence of their dance exudes joy and spontaneity. Prepare for a celebration if a Brolga gently enters your life!

 In a famous Dreaming story about Brolga, she was portrayed as a beautiful girl who had an unyielding passion for dancing. A wirrinun (shaman) sought her as his wife, but she turned down his advances, as she did with all men. Her devotion was solely to dance, leaving no room for distractions. He nurtured resentment until one day, while witnessing her dance alone on the plain, he seized the opportunity to transform into a willy-willy (small whirlwind) to abduct her. The Great Spirit intervened, transforming her into the Brolga we recognise today. She continues to dance.

Brolga represents the power to pursue your creative passions and talents while receiving support. The girl was cared for by her tribe, allowing her to refine her skills, even when they weren't essential for survival. As a rare mark of respect, she was invited to dance at men’s corroborees. Brolga symbolises the idea of chasing dreams and expressing oneself creatively in a professional context. All it takes is believing in yourself and dedicating time – Brolga’s dance itself demonstrates the validity of self-expression!

 Clearly, the Brolga embodies creativity, particularly in dance and self-expression. She was an exceptional dancer, pouring all her energy into it. What talents do you possess in your life? Brolga performs her graceful dance of creative expression, inviting you to join her.