According to Aboriginal artist Dennis Nona, “Bu Ka Palgie” recounts an episode from the legend of Sesserae, a character from the Torres Strait Islander pantheon. Sesserae taught the people of Badu Island about the existence of dugongs (a type of manatee), as well as how to hunt and cook their meat.

However, he tried to keep this discovery a secret from the other villagers. His deceit was uncovered, and warriors were sent to punish him. He then used one of his powers to transform into a wagtail in order to escape his attackers. A battle ensued, and although he took refuge inside a “bu”—a shell depicted in the print—one of the warriors shattered it. Sesserae managed to escape, but was never able to return to human form. He can still be seen today in the shape of a wagtail, a bird known for its selfishness, as it never shares its food with others.

Ed. /45