Wopurrma Guyula
Gay’wu
W: 31.4 x 6cm; R: 25cm

ID: 3047-24

String bags or Gay’wu are made generally from the inner bark of the Dharraŋgulk (Kurrajong Brachiciton Paradoxis) also known as Balwurr. This distinctive tree or shrub loses all its leaves and then has a vivid orange flower which is a sign of the stingray season and the birth of young sharks from July to September. String can also be made from the Ḏawu or Banyan tree aerial roots. After the outer bark has been removed the inner sheath of bark is removed and pounded to separate the fibres which are then woven together on the thigh of the maker. This often results in depilation. The component fibres are then twisted together to form string. This form of basket is a functional one and can be made in all sizes and with different structures so that it can be a sack like container with wide holes to carry large amounts of big objects or it can be closely knit to hold tiny items within. The string handle is made so that the carrier would ordinarily have the bag hanging down her back with the string handle across her forehead leaving hands free for carrying infants and digging stick or Wapitja. String has many metaphoric meanings within Yolŋu ceremonial law and dances reenact the act of gathering yams to place in these string bags.