Waru Walkat Junanyi - Drawing On Fire: Maruku Artists

For over 50 years Anangu, Aboriginal people from the Central and Western Deserts, have used heated wire to create markings, filled with stories, on their traditional wooden artefacts and tools. First seen by the Anangu on the stations when the cattle were being branded, they discovered heated fencing wire created a precise line that they adapted to create their own designs on their wooden objects. Modern times and various influences have seen the artists techniques diversify, with each piece and its markings unique to the individual creator.

Maruku Arts, incorporated in 1984, is celebrating 40 years of supporting Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people to continue traditional carving practices with wood, sourced ethically and on country. A pivotal Uluru based organisation providing a means of economical independence for all ages and ensuring the continuation of cultural practices.

- Courtesy of Verity May, Manager (Anangu Malpa), Maruku Arts