Munhala Dhamarrandji
Gomu’
Image size: 48 x 35.5cm

ID: 3259-26

“This is my first time making a lino print. I have been enjoying it in my heart. These shells are from my wäŋa (homeland) Yilpara.”

Gomu’ are a form of hermit crab who are sung by the Djambarrpuyŋu. The edible species are known as ŋukaliya (hermit crab, Clibanarius taeniatus). But the dictionary Maypal, Mayili ga Wäŋa – Shellfish, meaning and place suggests that gomu’ are inedible and that they prefer the shell shapes known as ḻaḻaywarra and barawatharr. A shell which is more heavily built than ŋukaliya, and which are round rather than pointed.

The Djambarrpuyŋu songs of turtle hunters tell that as turtle is butchered (in accordance to strict protocols relating to cuts and priority division) the gomu’ rise to the top of the sand attracted by the smell.

Image size: 48 x 35.5cm
Paper size: 67.5 x 55.5cm
Paper: Somerset