Artist unknown

86 x 3cm

Wood, ochre

The Mimih spirits were the original spirit beings, according to the Kunwinjku people of West Arnhem Land, who taught Aboriginal people many of the skills they needed to survive on country. They also instructed ceremonial elements. Mimih spirits are believed to reside in the rocky escarpments of Stone Country, although humans hardly ever see them due to their extreme shyness. They are typically portrayed as little, active figures in the rock art of Arnhem Land, frequently depicted holding a variety of hunting implements like spears, spear throwers, dilly bags, and fire sticks.