Kerinauia Jilamara:2009 Natural ochre on paper

Raelene Kerinauia
Jilamara 2009
Natural ochre on paper 77 x57cm
Catalogue:18509

    D.O.B:  1 September 1962

    Clan (Skin): Yikwani (Sun)

    Language: Tiwi

    Country: Pickataramoor

    Region: Melville Island

    Medium: Natural ochre and pigment on canvas, paper, bark and printmaking

    Dance: Yirrikapayi (Crocodile)

    Raelene was born on Bathurst Island and raised by her grandmother.  Her older brother Vivian is also a painter.  Raelene began designing screens for fabric printing in 1985 as a part of the adult education programme in Milikapiti and then started to paint when the new arts centre (Jilamara Arts and Crafts Centre) was established in 1989.  Initially she used brushes with ochres but since 1999 has used the traditional painting techniques of using comb - kayimwagakini.   Combs were used for ceremonial body painting application and are typically made from bloodwood or ironwood.  

    Raelene was inspired to use the traditional technique of kayimwagakini after watching young and emerging artist Pedro Wonaeamirri, and viewing older pole carvings in the National Museum (Canberra) by the late Tiwi carver Sugarbag Kapiti.  The making of the comb is a skill itself, and Raelene’s late husband, carver James Tipiloura, carved Raelene’s painting combs.

    ©Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association