Artist: Christine Winmar

Region: Perth

Size: 74 x 60 cm

Original Noongar Artwork

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Framed

Christine Winmar is a Noongar woman, born in Midland, Western Australia, in 1965. Her skin name is ‘Allawah’, an Aboriginal word meaning "Stay here".  Christine was taught to paint by her father, a renowned artist and didgeridoo craftsman. He taught her many aspects and techniques of Noongar art, which is reflected in her work today. Christine then began experimenting with different styles and techniques with the support of her family and friends. 

 Christine has also spent a few years in the Kimberley, where she developed her skills by adopting the techniques of Aboriginals in the Northern Territory. By 1997, Christine had been selling her works through an Aboriginal art gallery in Perth.  Her first joint exhibition followed shortly, when in 2005 she and fellow artists Mingi May Barnes, Geoff Lindsey and Tjinanginy exhibited in Perth and Cottesloe. 

 In 2009 Christine exhibited her work with various other artists in Perth and San Francisco in the “Colours of Australia” exhibition. Christine uses media such as canvas, pottery, wood and glass. Bright and colourful patterns made using dots are common in her work.

About the Painting

Koorin is a combined Nyoongar Aboriginal name meaning ‘flower of the stars’, which corresponds to the common name Star of Bethlehem. These flowers grow from Geraldton to Busselton. The star flower is a shrub that can reach heights of up to 50 centimetres. Blue star-shaped flowers bloom from June to September, while the anthers start pink and gradually change to orange-red as they age.

The Noongar people utilize the bark, twigs, and leaves to address skin ailments when boiled. When combined with emu fat, it served to alleviate muscle pain, bruises, and wounds.