Gloria PETYARRE (c.1942 - 2021) Born: Mosquito Bore, Utopia, Northern Territory Language Group: Anmatyerre Community: Utopia, Northern Territory Gloria Petyarre's depiction of the Kurrajong bush medicine leaves with her layered, swirling brushstrokes is her iconic motif. In 1999 Gloria Petyarre became the first Indigenous Australian artist to win the 'Wynne Prize for Landscape' at the New South Wales Gallery. She is credited with being the creator of this popular style, which was adopted and adapted by several generations of her family members over Gloria's retirement in 2019. The artistic tradition in Utopia started in the Utopia Women's Silk Batik Group introduced in 1977. Gloria Petyarre and her aunt Emily Karne Kngwarrye were found members of this group. Gloria Petyarre started painting on canvas in 1988 with her brushstrokes and layered paint having foundations in the batik tradition. This item is part of the Federation University Art Collection. The Art Collection features over 2000 works and was listed as a 'Ballarat Treasure' in 2007.Utopian Art Movement‘Bush Medicine Dreaming’ depicts the leaves of a special plant that is used to aid in the healing process. The leaves are collected and then boiled to extract the resin. Following this, the resin is mixed with kangaroo fat collected from the kangaroo’s stomach. This creates a paste that can be stored for up to six months in bush conditions. This medicine is used to heal cuts, wounds, bites, rashes and as an insect repellent. The Dreaming that is the basis for Petyarre’s paintings comes from the important ceremonies and traditions held by the people of Atnwengerrp. art, artwork, gloria petyarre, aboriginal, utopia

An unframed square acrylic-on-canvas painting in tones of green and white forming an abstract botanical pattern that radiates out from the centre. A renowned Anmatyerre artist from Utopia, Northern Territory, Petyarre’s work carries more than pigment—it holds a lineage of care. These sweeping, rhythmic brushstrokes represent Kurrajong leaves and other medicinal plants traditionally gathered and prepared by women healers. Passed from grandmother to granddaughter, these practices are a form of medicine beyond the clinical. They speak of country, ceremony, and community. They evoke breath, movement, and the cyclical nature of wellbeing. Hand painted on reverse. "JEANNIE PETYARRE 60X60" Handwritten on reverse. "(Sister of Gloria Petyarre) / "Medicine Leaves" 2005. / Presented to ANZCA by Prof. Michael Cousins 16/6/06"oil paint, acrylic paint, floral, floral design, botanical design, abstract art, indigenous artists, first nations artists, australian artists, australian art