The concept of Pupuni Jilamara is central to Tiwi cultural identity, referring to the ochre-based designs used in ceremonies such as Kulama (coming-of-age) and Pukumani (mourning). These intricate patterns, traditionally painted on the body and bark, are deeply symbolic, serving as a link between the physical and spiritual realms. Passed down from mother or godmother to child, Pupuni Jilamara preserves ancestral knowledge, with Tiwi women playing a crucial role in ensuring its continuity through the generations. Through this matrilineal transmission, the designs maintain their sacred meanings, reinforcing kinship ties and cultural heritage.
Virginia Galarla’s bark paintings embody this enduring tradition, preserving and reinterpreting Pupuni Jilamara for future generations. The natural ochres she uses—red, yellow, white, and black—mirror those applied in ceremonial body painting, reinforcing the connection between art, ritual, and place. Rooted in the Dreaming, these patterns reflect the spirits who first bestowed them upon the Tiwi people, ensuring that their presence continues to guide and shape cultural expression today.
