The painting refers to two significant elements; Awelye and bush melon; from the late Minnie Pwerle's homeland of Atnwengerrp, Utopia in Central Australia.

Awelye refers to womens ceremonies and body paint. The women anoint their upper body with oil and apply ochre markings, before dancing their ceremony.

Bush Melon (circles) is said to be found only in Atnwengerrp. The women gather the fruit to be eaten or dried and stored to be consumed when bush tucker was scarce.

If you would like to know more about Awelye- Antwengerrp and the relationship with Aboriginal Art and culture, please read the following articles or to view video footage of Awelye Ceremony:

• Aboriginal Women
• Awelye
• Aboriginal Food
• Utopia Aboriginal Art: Paintings from the Central Desert
• Minnie Pwerle Tribute in Memory
• Awelye (Body Paint) - Video of Aboriginal Women applying body paint design