The painting represents the curling pattern of the Mountain Devil Lizards (Thorny Devil Lizard) appearance.

In the Dreamtime, it is believed the Mountain Devil lizard (arnkerth) carried ochre (pigment) in a pouch on the back of its neck. As the lizard journeyed across Atnangkere country, he deposited ochre throughout the regions of Utopia in Central Australia.

Aboriginal people apply ochre pigment to their body for traditional ceremonies.

If you would like to know more about the Mountain Devil Lizard Dreaming and the relationship with Aboriginal Art and culture, please read the following articles:-

• Mountain Devil Lizard Dreaming
• Utopia Aboriginal Art: Aboriginal Paintings from the Central Desert
• Aboriginal Dreamtime Stories