The following text is from the accompanying information panel:
Mokuy
Nawurapu Wunungmurra, b. 1952
Dhalwangu clan
Buku-Larrnggay Mulka, Yirrkala
Yolngu people of north east Arnhem Land live within a system of ancient spiritual beliefs. These were set in place by the Creator Beings and Ancestors, through epic journeys and events during times referred to by Yolngu as Wangarr, the First Mornings.
Mokuy, or spirits, progress on an eternal cycle through the landscape. In Yolngu belief we all have spirits. When our body dies the spirit must be sung through to the reservoir of souls from which it came, so it can return once more.
These Mokuy are a manifestation of the spirit at one of its stages of development on this cycle.
It is said that these Mokuy gather on ancient ceremonial grounds in Arnhem Land to conduct their rituals at night. These ceremonies guarantee progression of the spirits upon their journey and renewal of the land and its resources.
Their nocturnal activities are often audible to those who camp adjacent to these ceremonial grounds.
Location: Darwin, Australia
Body: Pentax K10D
Lens: Pentax SMC-FA 100mm f/2.8 Macro