This work is an incised bark painting. Artworks using this method carry a large amount of spiritual meaning. The layers of metaphor relate to the connections between an individual and the land, between clans, and the forces that act on a spirit’s path through its existence. Djirrirra created Buyku at Gulutji. This place is a sacred expanse of water where Barama (Yirritja ancestral being) emerged from the water. Then, he held council with his disciples and established Yirritja law. The Yirritja clans spread from this site.

This work represents the union of different groups within the Dhaḻwaŋu clan. They are joined through the ancestral cycle of fishtrap ceremonies. The events are ceremonial and spiritual as well as social and educational. According to Djirrirra, the diamond design depicts the waters around Gangan. The grid that encases these diamonds adds a metaphorical layer to the design. These lines call back to the structure of a traditional fish trap made with rangan (paperbark) and wooden stakes. This combination of location and tradition marks the Buyku (fish trap area) that belongs to the Dhaḻwaŋu and allied clans. The people of the Dhaḻwaŋu and allied clans identify with the ancestral hunter Gany’tjurr (heron) while they fish baypinŋa (Scleropages jardini, spotted saratoga).

– Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre