#32 Minyma Malilu (Orange Tones): CAROLANNE KEN: Aboriginal Art - 88x200cm

ARTIST: Carolanne Ken 
LANGUAGE: Pitjantjatjara / Yankunyatjara
REGION: Fregon, APY LANDS, SA
TITLE: Minyma Malilu
MEDIUM: Painting - acrylic on canvas.

Renowned for her breathtaking art, Carolanne Ken consistently weaves magic into her stunning pieces, known for their intricate dot details and vibrant colors. Born in 1971 in Fregon, on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Lands, Carolanne's connection to her homeland runs deep. Her artistic journey began in 2004 at Kaltjiti Arts, where she initially assisted in studio management. However, her passion for painting soon led her to become a full-time artist.

Carolanne's artwork tells the profound story of Minyma Malilu, a narrative passed down from her maternal grandmother. Malilu was an ancestral woman who, according to Aboriginal kinship systems, sought to reunite with her daughter who had eloped with an unsuitable partner. To keep watch over her daughter, Malilu chose a raised piece of land and dug a cave with her piti (coolamon) to create a large wiltja (shelter) for herself.

Carolanne's paintings capture the spiritual essence of this cave, believed to hold Malilu's powerful spirit. The large painterly roundels represent the cave, while the fluid brush strokes depict the digging marks made by Malilu. This story is deeply cherished by Pitjantjatjara women, who are its custodians. They visit the cave site, singing songs to honor Malilu and love songs to their husbands, wishing them safe travels.

Her artwork is not just about color and technique; it's a testament to her heritage, beautifully weaving together the past, present, and future of her people. The depth and precision in her work are beyond compare, making her pieces a must-have for collectors. Carolanne's skillful use of colors and dotting technique brings a unique vibrancy to her designs that's truly extraordinary.

Carolanne Ken's art is a celebration of her rich cultural heritage, masterfully blending tradition with contemporary artistry. Her pieces are more than just visual delights; they are stories etched in time, inviting viewers to experience the spirit and resilience of her people.