About the Artwork

In this painting, the artist has depicted imagery of Irmangka Irmangka, a plant that has been used in traditional medicine in Anangu culture for thousands of years and continues to be used today.

Irmangka Irmangka was traditionally used to help relieve muscle soreness and the symptoms of colds and flus.

It is the tiny leaf from the bush that is harvested, then ground on a stone and mixed with animal fat or oils and applied to the body when needed. The leaves can also be steeped in water and taken as medicine orally.

Anangu feel strongly about continuing to teach and learn traditional ways, and their art is important and vital work. It sustains them economically, physically, and culturally. It keeps the stories and traditions alive.