Originally from Maningrida, in Central Arnhem Land, Marina's bark depicts a fish that is very important in death ceremonies: the barramundi, or ‘saratoga’.

For the Aborigines of Arnhem Land, the spirits of the dead and the unborn are found in the marshes, rivers and streams, where the barramundi live and freight. With their fins, they create veritable nests on the seabed.

During funeral ceremonies, the participants symbolically recreate these nests, where they wash off their body paint as part of purifying ritual libations.

This contemporary Aboriginal painting connects the physical world to the ancestral realm, expressing themes of life, death, and renewal through nature. It stands out as a meaningful addition to any contemporary Aboriginal art collection or a meditative interior space.

Discover more artworks by Marina MARDILANJ on her artist page or browse for similar bark paintings.

Interested in this Aboriginal artwork? Contact Arts d’Australie • Stéphane Jacob to purchase, view in person, or receive tailored advice for your art collection.