$2,800.00
| DREAMING | |
|---|---|
| SIZE | 60 × 80 cm |
| YEAR | |
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
| colour |
Molly Pwerle
1919 – 2024
Molly Pwerle was the senior “boss woman” of Atnwengerrp and a revered cultural leader. Encouraged by her niece Barbara Weir, she began painting in 2004 alongside her sisters Galya and Emily after a workshop at Irrultja. Molly’s practice centres on Awelye Atnwengerrp (women’s ceremonial body painting) and Bush Melon Dreaming, translating ceremony into bold interweaving lines and an ochre-rich palette that echoes traditional body paint. Though she started late, her voice arrived fully formed, and her works have featured in key exhibitions including The Pwerle Sisters (DACOU, 2010), Utopia – Colours of the Desert (Seoul, 2009) and Atnwengerrp – Our Apmere, Our Place (Pwerle Gallery × Tandanya, 2020).
Molly is deeply missed by her family. Her bravery in protecting newborn Barbara Weir ensured the survival of a lineage of artists and descendants—read more in our Stolen Generations section.
Learn more about Molly Pwerle here.
Painted in 2018, this work measures 60cm x 90cm. It is currently stretched and ready to hang, with the artist’s signature featured on the canvas.
Awelye Atnwengerrp (Women’s Ceremonial Body Painting)
For Molly Pwerle, Awelye Atnwengerrp was more than an artistic subject — it was her responsibility as the oldest woman and a senior “boss woman” in her community. This women’s ceremonial Dreaming embodies the deep connection between women, their Country, and their ancestors. Molly carried the authority to lead and approve these ceremonies, which involve intricate body painting, song, and dance. The ochre designs — long, interwoven lines across the chest, arms, and breasts — are specific to Atnwengerrp and are passed from generation to generation. On canvas, Molly brought these patterns to life with bold, confident strokes, translating the ceremonial markings into a contemporary form while retaining their sacred energy and rhythm.
Learn more here.
Each artwork is meticulously created using the highest quality materials to ensure longevity, vibrancy, and integrity over time. Artists work with premium linen canvas, selected for its durability and fine texture, paired with professional-grade acrylics and hand-picked brushes. This combination allows for both bold expression and intricate detail, preserving the richness of the stories embedded in every piece. All materials are archival and museum-quality.
