Bulthirrirri Wunuŋmurra
Waŋupini
Paper Size: 85 x 66.7cm; Image Size: 85 x 66.7cm; Paper: Handcut Hahnumuhle

ID: 4621-24

Waŋupini (clouds) is the same story as my father taught me about the sunset. The sun is going down. The sunset on the clouds is like the red sails of the Makassan’s ships leaving at the end of the season. We cry because the Makassans are leaving. The mokuy (spirit) is dancing and leaving – the body is dead and the sprit is going to Balambala.

This is Yirritja bäpurru (ceremony), the same as my Grandafther, Yaŋgarriny – this is his manikay (song).
The sun will rise again. The Makassans will come back. And the spirit will return.

My father, who passed away, taught me this story. He taught me how to paint the story of Waŋupini.

I have been painting Waŋupini on ceramic pots as it reminds me about the connection the Maccasans have with Yolŋu.

When I see this print it makes me happy – it reminds me of my father and the story he taught me. Through these stories we stay connected.