ALHALKERE WINTER, 1993

Important Aboriginal + Oceanic Art
Melbourne
27 March 2013
10

EMILY KAME KNGWARREYE

(c.1910 - 1996)
ALHALKERE WINTER, 1993

synthetic polymer paint on canvas

152.5 x 121.0 cm

inscribed verso: artist's name and Delmore Gallery cat. 93F070

Private sale
Provenance

Private Collection, Donald Holt, Delmore Downs Station, Alice Springs

This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Delmore Gallery

Catalogue text

In Alhalkere country, the progression of colour from the dry earth tones to lush green growth, and then to the delicate colours of wildflowers, is slow after a winter rain. An invigorated mood is all pervading as all life waits for an early glimpse of warmth to give plants that final bit of zest to produce a desert in full carpeted bloom.

Once this occurs, the bloom is brief and settles into a dry state. The wild flowers may seem sparse, but on close inspection have exceptional colour tones. The colours are somber, of deep green leaves in misty acacia grey dawns over frosted hayed-off grasses, and small pink and white wild flowers. In Alhalkere Winter, Emily presents us with pink and fragile winter wildflowers, highlighted by the drying grasses in which they are found.

ANNABEL HOLT AND JANET HOLT