The painting depicts Aboriginal iconography referring to the edible underground tubers of the yam plant. In summer the plant produces yellow flowers on the surface.

The Aboriginal women from Utopia use a digging stick to locate the underground tubers, a staple food source (bush tucker) for Aboriginal people living in Central Australia. This task requires unique skills, which are passed down through generations of Aboriginal women.

The women pay homage to the spirit of the yam plant in their ceremonies to ensure perpetual germination.

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

• Aboriginal Symbols and their Meanings
• Aboriginal Food
• Aboriginal Women