Delek & Kunyirrke (White Clay & Charcoal): Mimih Spirits

Delek & Kunyirrke was an exhibition showcasing a selection of monochromatic mimih spirits.

Aboriginal people in the rocky environments of Western and South-Western Arnhem Land speak of the existence of tall slender spirits which they call Mimih. The Mimih spirit exists in a realm that runs parallel to and mirrors many facets of human life, also demonstrating the deep sense of time and place understood by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Mimih spirits are credited with teaching the first people many important skills including hunting, fishing, song and ceremony and continue to exist in the rocky environments of Arnhem Land. Mimihs are shy, mischievous and slender, with a broad range of facial expressions giving each their individual character and denoting their potential volatility and humour.

Artists: Samson Bonson, Simon Namunjdja, Eddie Carey, David Jones, Rosina Gunjarrwanga, Serena Bonson, Jeremiah Bonson, Simone Namunjdja, Carissa Gurrawalwal.