Leaves

Internationally acclaimed and highly prized Aboriginal artist from Central Australia.

In this painting, which represents the movement of leaves blowing in the wind, Gloria captures the essence of her traditional country and associated Bush Medicine Dreaming which is celebrated in ceremonies. In preparation for the ceremony the women paint their bodies with special markings for that particular ceremony.

The painting depicts leaves of a special plant referred to as a bush medicine tree. The leaves are boiled to extract resin. Kangaroo or emu fat is added and mixed into a paste which can be stored for a long time in bush conditions. The medicine is used to heal cuts, wounds, bites, rashes and also acts as an insect repellent.

Whilst Gloria’s paintings are derived from her cultural traditions and stories of country, her work is contemporary and individualistic. She is well known for the creation of optical illusion through dynamic movement and colour.