Yuurila / Understand Necklace

Paper artwork necklace by Kimberley Mann and Cleonie Quayle

This necklace is made from crafting a printed artwork by Barkindji woman, Kimberly Mann (Payne) ‘Yuurila / Understand’ 

The artwork is inspired by the the pride Kimberley Mann feels for her father, who divorced from her mother during her childhood, and moved in with another man.

She writes: "I thought back on my childhood and how my friends dads were into footy... while mine was spending hours trying different hairstyles on me, dressing me up and doing photo shoots. I used to be ashamed, because I knew my father was different and as i got older I understand.

I admire him for being true to himself, respecting himself andlearning to love himself enough to be who he wanted to be. Dad had an eagle tattoo with my name underneath, he taught me that the Eagle is our totem and protection. I've included this in the artwork. The lines represent the journeys we went on, the waterways, the river and the memories of collecting mussels with Dad."

Cleonie Quayle,  a Malyingapa Barkindji woman has crafted this artwork into a bold, beautiful varnished paper necklace, to which she's artfully added feathers, leather ties and beads.

Artists Kimberly and Cleonie work in collaboration to showcase the beauty, strength, stories and culture of the Barkindji people and Country.

Please note: These necklaces are made from printed paper artwork. The varnish applied is for gloss and depth of colour, these necklaces can be affected by water.

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