The artwork depicted is a presentation, referring to seasonal changes and flowers the Pencil yam plant.

The Aboriginal women from Utopia use digging sticks to gather the edible white root, which is an important food source (bush tucker). The leaves are collected and used for medical purposes.

The women also honour the spirit of the yam plant during awelye ceremonies to ensure perpetual germination.

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

• Aboriginal Food
• Aboriginal Women
• Awelye (Womens Ceremony) Art
• Utopia Aboriginal Art: Aboriginal Paintings from the Central Desert