Charmaine Ashley

b. 1977

23 x 14 x 14cm

Pandanus Spiralis, bush string, natural bush dyes

Gapuwiyak Culture and Arts Catalogue : 23-356

Baskets are made from Gunga (Pandanus Spiralis) and often include Balgurr (Bush string). Many baskets are made using a coiling process and others are made with a twining technique seen in mats. Some baskets are plain, but many, as in this piece, are dyed with natural bush dyes. Some artists are experimenting with new techniques and colours.

“I am part of the Wagilak clan. My true homeland is Ngilipitji. I learnt about fibre art from the old women. I have family across the NT and I used to live at Galiwinku. My partner Andrew is from the Traditional Owner clan at Gapuwiyak. I like to make art with pandanus and bush dyes.” - Charmaine Ashley

Text courtesy of Gapuwiyak Culture and Arts