This artwork refers to the celebration of plants and their use in traditional medicine, and the performance of ceremonies to ensure their abundance form a strong component of the spiritual responsibilities of Aboriginal women.

The leaves, flowers, bark or seeds of certain plants are harvested in season or as needed. This is often done in groups so that knowledge is passed down from older to younger women.

The plants are ground to a pulp and boiled to extract the resin. The resin is mixed with fat to make ointments. Traditionally, the stomach fat of kangaroos or emus was used, and would keep for months in the harsh conditions of the desert. The medicine may be used to heal wounds, bites, rashes, and as an insect repellent.

If you would like to know more about the Bush Grass Medicine and the relationship with Aboriginal Art and culture, please read the following articles:

• Bush Medicine
• Aboriginal Women
• Utopia Aboriginal Art: Paintings from the Central Desert