Likanaya Yawkyawk Pair (Mermaid) - Meeting Places ECRU

The Yawkyawk is a female creature originating in the mythology of the Kunwinjku people of Western Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Australia.

The story of the Yawkyawk water spirits:

Yawkyawk's are female water spirits that closely resemble the European idea of mermaids. Half spirit and half fish, they entice unwary fishermen beneath the water of the lagoons that are their domain throughout Arnhem Land. They may have long hair like reeds of trailing water weed, and can take on the features of fish or the body of a snake. When fully grown, Yawkyawk spirits can leave their waterhole to forage for food by changing their fishtails into legs to walk on dry land or assume the shape of a dragonfly to fly. Yawkyawk figures are also closely associated with Ngaloyd, the Rainbow Serpent, and can be associated with sorcery.

About the material:

Meeting places are important in traditional Aboriginal culture. Elders and others meet together to discuss the well-being of the community. These gatherings offer various interactive insights into the traditional skills, ancient stories, and day-to-day life of the First Nations people. The community leaders will share their cultural experiences by recounting mesmerizing stories of their ancient ancestors, which are represented through their drawings. These gatherings provide an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate and consolidate their traditional cultural practices and identity.
The beautiful and intelligent artist, Josie Cavanagh, has depicted the meeting in a vibrant way. Various circles in the artwork represent the waterholes, and the people gathering around them to discuss their community matters.

Made from cotton

Dimensions: 16cm H