Warlukun - Fire

Fire has been central to many aspects of traditional Aboriginal life, traditionally used as a practical tool in hunting, cooking, warmth, medicinal practices managing the landscape. It also holds great spiritual meaning, with many stories and dances passed down around the fire and as a ceremonial and ritual device.

For thousands of years Aboriginal people have been using fire to maintain ecosystems and manage the land.

The background of the painting shows the scorched earth and the flames from Warlukun as it moves across country, small controlled fires were started by burning the native grasses early in the dry season to help clear pathways through the land, regenerate vegetation and prevent life threatening wildfires.

Artwork by Luke Jampin Booth.