Dhuḏuthuḏu (Frog Mouth Owl), 2024
$1,012.00
Dhuḏuthuḏu is the name for the frogmouth owl which I carve. It belongs to the Dhuwa Moiety, the Ḏäṯiwuy and Ŋaymil clan, they sing about the owl (Frogmouth – Podargus strigoides) and the song joins the two clans together. They also connect to Gälpu and Djambarrpuyŋu through this law. Its country is near Yäŋunbi and is known as Warrathiri or Munumbal. Elders have said that it is not deep law but just something that they sing and dance. These wooden sculptures are made from wood which is usually collected in the dry season. We prefer Milkwood and Cottonwood. Firstly, we go to the bush and cut the wood and carry it back to the vehicle. It is often a long walk, through prickly vines and scrub. The bark is taken off and then the wood is left to dry for a short period. It is then shaped by a knife and chisels. It is then sanded smooth and then an ochre paint is selected to go down as the first coat. The paints used are natural ochres collected from the land. The red (Meku), yellow (Gaŋgul) and black (Gurrŋan) are provided by rubbing rocks of these colours against a grinding stone and then adding water and PVA glue in small quantities. A new batch of paint is prepared or renewed every few minutes as it dries or is used up. After an outline of the composition is laid down the Raak or crosshatching commences. This is applied using a brush made of a few strands of straight human hair usually from a young woman or girl. The artist charges the Marwat (brush) with the paint and then paints away from themselves in a straight line. Each stroke is a fresh infusion of ochre
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If you require a refund or wish to return or exchange your order, please contact Elcho Island Arts. We offer free returns or exchanges within 14 days of receiving your order.
To initiate a return or exchange, send an email with the catalogue number of the artwork and the reason why you wish to return refund or exchange the artwork.
All returned items must be in their original condition and have no visible sign of wear, use or damage; have all original documentation, tags still on and be returned in original packaging.
Elcho Island Arts Return policy
If you require a refund or wish to return or exchange your order, please contact Elcho Island Arts. We offer free returns or exchanges within 14 days of receiving your order.
To initiate a return or exchange, send an email with the catalogue number of the artwork and the reason why you wish to return refund or exchange the artwork.
All returned items must be in their original condition and have no visible sign of wear, use or damage;
Have all original documentation, tags still on and be returned in original packaging.
