Wur-cum barra
Meanings of Drawings
Artist
Artwork by Tegan Edwards-Marks © Depertment of Education 2005
No. 1
This story symbolises the importance of gathering in the Aboriginal community. The four boomerangs, together, mean that there are four people sitting around a campfire. The wiggly lines represent the natural flow of soil and water beneath the land the other four lines represent the tribes and areas they have come from. Finally, the flowers represent the native flowers and plants of Australia. There are many indigenous/native flora and fauna.
No. 2
This drawing represents again the importance of gathering within the Aboriginal community. Footsteps leading to the campfire from both directions give the feeling of togetherness. The lines represent the areas the tribes have come from. The prints in black mean that there is a wombat around the area, just walking around waiting to see if the tribesmen leave any leftovers for him. In modern day, this drawing could mean people coming together to gather information from a particular part of the community, being the Department of Education.
No. 3
This drawing represents the “Waterhole”. This is the main area of a popular community. They will come to gather, water, and to trade which may include their tools, clothing, etc. The plants show that indigenous plants were a vital part of the Aboriginal community
No. 4
This drawing represents “Dancing Men”. They usually dance at corrobborees – special events within the community. The circle in the centre shows that they are dancing on the dirt and when they kicked it up that it vibrated throughout the local area.
Symbols in the Drawings
