REV-137

Ashley Hunter 

Ingarlgalandij Art and Culture Hub

Lalin Gaarrayoon Jawal – Lalin Saltwater Story

carved pearl shell:15 x 17 x 2 cm

This collaborative work pays homage to Bardi Jawi culture, grounded in a deep spiritual connection to land and sea as one living system. As custodians of Gaarra Boorroo (Saltwater Country), we actively strive to preserve our culture and environment. 
 
The works respond to the season of Lalin, one of six Bardi Jawi seasons shaped by tides, winds, rainfall and seasonal foods. Lalin is the build-up to the wet season—hot and humid—marked by turtle breeding, flowering bush fruits and the first threatening clouds in our usually clear blue skies. 
 
Nine artists share interpretations of Lalin Gaarrayoon Jawal, exploring tides and currents, clouds, hunting, and collecting saltwater foods, bush fruits and medicinal plants. Bardi Aamba (men) carve pearl shell (Goowarn), alongside Bardi Oorany (women) who present indigo-dyed and silkscreened works.