One of Twelve Parnngurr Area Silk Scarf by Jakayu Biljabu

The electrifying work Parnngurr Area relates to the landscape surrounding the Martu community of Parnngurr in the Eastern Pilbara. Significant sites Yalpu, Wangkakarlu, Parnkurrl and Kurran Kurran are depicted – water sources that were crucial to the survival of Biljabu and her family during pujiman. Biljabu’s family travelled from place to place depending on the availability of food and water at these sites, and to fulfil social and ritual obligations.

The epic Minyipuru Jukurrpa (Seven Sisters Story) follows the travels of an amorous old man named Yurla as he chases seven sisters across the desert of Martu Country. The yellow arc-like shapes in this work represent the sisters dancing near Parnngurr.

Yurla followed the sisters from Roebourne on the coast of Western Australia. At one point in the story, Yurla snatches one of the women, but her sisters trick him and manage to rescue her. Eventually they escape into the sky, taking the form of the seven stars comprising the Pleiades constellation.