Mimi Spirit by John Rocky Cahill

 Mimi Spirit, original canvas painting by local Bininj artist John Rocky Cahill.

Dimensions: 29cm x 41.5cm

These slender, ethereal beings are depicted in rock art across the landscape. The Mimi spirits are told to live in the rocky escarpments, which there is an abundance of in Kakadu and Western Arnhem land region. For many the Mimi spirits may seem scary, but it is important to remember they were the Dreaming ancestors. Mimi spirits are believed to have taught the Bininj/Mungguy people essential survival skills, such as hunting, cooking, and tool-making. As well as many cultural traditions, such as dancing and singing. This is perhaps why you can often find Mimis to be painted in action, such as hunting, dancing or preparing tucker. Bininj of Western Arnhem Land says that the paintings of Mimi spirits were never painted by humans, but by Mimis themselves.

This artwork has been purchased directly from an Aboriginal artist in Kakadu National Park or Arnhem Land. Warradjan Cultural Centre is committed to supporting artists, their families and the local community.