The painting depicts in a linear design the root system of the pencil yam (atnwelarr), as well as the tracks to where the plant is found. It is at these sites where significant ceremonies are performed by the women from Alhalhere, Utopia in Central Australia.

Through song lines, body paint and dance cycle homage is paid to the spirit of the yam plant to ensure perpetual germination. The pencil yam is an principal food source (bush tucker) for the Aboriginal people.

If you would like to know more about the Pencil Yam Dreaming and the relationship with Aboriginal Art and culture, please read the following articles:

• Aboriginal Food
• Aboriginal Women
• Utopia Aboriginal Art: Aboriginal Paintings from the Central Desert