538-22MM, Mimili Maku Arts, 63cm
Tjara
I learned how to work punu (wood) from my grandfather Sammy. He is a very famous spear maker and knows all the trees of the lands. He used to take me out bush when I was younger, and I would jump out of the car and help him find the best branches, the best trees. I still work next to Sammy when I carve and create punu. I started off with only spears, but now I create other objects like kali (boomerang) and tjara (shields).
Tjara were used as protection during fights. We don't use them much anymore, but when we carve the shields, we recall the ceremonies of old and the importance of keeping the knowledge of punu (trees) alive.
