This artwork refers to the Bush plum, known as Arnwekety . The composition of colour and shape variations points to the geography and intimate knowledge of locations. The fine white dotted lines represent the tracks of the Aboriginal women.

The Bush Plum is of significance to the region of Utopia and the people who are attached to the Dreaming. The women celebrate the Bush plum in their awelye ceremonies, which includes body painting, many song lines and dance cycles to ensure its perpetual germination and to re-enact the ancestor spirits.

This native plant produces white flowers followed by berries. When ripened the berries turn from purple to black. These fruits are edible and taste sweet and is a favourite bush tucker for Aboriginal people. Arnwekety is also a food source for emus, bush turkeys and many native birds.

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

• Bush Plum Dreaming
• Aboriginal Women
• Utopia Aboriginal Paintings from the Central Desert