Janet uses large sailmaker needles to hold the walka (body decoration) while she sews it into place. These detailed and colourful designs are specific to the Kuru Ala inma (ceremonial song and dance).
Janet sews on the walka.
Detail of the finished walka.
Janet and Jo Foster, of Tjanpi Desert Weavers, discuss what to add next to shape the sister and give her personality.
Detail of the sculpture’s hand constructed with wool, raffia and tjanpi (grass).
Janet Nyumitji Forbes and Freda Yimunya Lane are experienced tjanpi artists.
Christiane Keller, National Museum of Australia
