Tjala Tjukurpa ( Honey Ant Dreaming) Size, 1820x2000

This painting depicts Tjala (Honey Ants) which is an important food source of the Pitjantjatjara people and are widespread through the sandy desert areas of the Northern Territory and into South Australia. Honey ants are found approx. 1 metre underground beneath Mulga trees. The honey ant tunnels that lead down to the nests are called nyinantu and the honey ant larvae is called ipilyka-ipilyka. When the Pitjantjatjara go looking for honey ants, they look for the drill holes under the trees and when they see them, they dig down following the tunnels to find the Honey ants inside. The swollen abdomen which is full of honey is bitten off and swallowed. It was one of the very few sources of sugar available to nomads of central Australia. The story of the Tjala is told across these desert areas and is an important link between Anangu mythology and interdependence on the environment.

Painted: 2021 | Code : PPFA2021-145

Acrylic on Belgian Linen