Paddy Japaljarri Stewart – Yam & Bush Tomato – Kilim (XL)

Composition: Hand dyed wool and cotton
Size: 182 x 244 cm (60 x 96 inches)

Features:

• Hand embroidered/chain-stitched
• All natural fibres – embroidered wool on cotton canvas
• Fair Trade certified
• Limited edition – individually numbered
• Certificate of Authenticity supplied with each kilim
• Royalties paid to the artist/family on every sale
• Hard wearing
• Back has non-slip surface
• Each kilim has flap on the rear for ease of hanging with dowel/rod
• Matching cushion covers are also available

Chain-stitched kilims are a traditional rug/soft furnishings making technique from Kashmir. As people sat on the floor they were both homewares and decoration. As many artworks are painted on the ground or 3D surfaces/bodies most of the images do not have a set orientation so can also be hung portrait or landscape if preferred.

Artist: Paddy ‘Cookie’ Japaljarri Stewart of Warlukurlangu Artists, Yuendumu NT
Paddy Stewart was one of the founders of Warlukurlangu Artists and he painted this Jukurrpa on one of the School Doors – featured in the iconic book Yuendumu Doors. The full story in Warlpiri and English is in the book. His family now receives the royalties from sales of this design. I was the first manager of Warlukurlangu Artists from 1986 – 88 and had the great pleasure of working with Japaljarri then and in the following years. The portrait photo was taken in 2004 by National Museum of Australia.
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About the design: Yarla manu Wanakiji (Big Yam and Bush Tomato) Creation Story.
This painting shows the Yam and Bush Tomato Dreamings. You can see the Yams and the small round berries of the Bush Tomatoes. The place associated with this Dreaming is west of Yuendumu. In the Dreamtime the people used to eat these fruits and vegetables, just as our old people lived off them. What I have painted here is the Dreamtime Yams and Bush Tomatoes. I painted them here for the children to see.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
Do not put place/use in direct sunlight or colours may fade. Dry cleaning recommended. Can be gently ironed on a steam wool setting on the front of the rug or use a steamer.

About the Better World Arts chainstitch kilim products
These beautiful, unique textiles are a cross-cultural collaboration combining Aboriginal designs and traditional Kashmiri rug-making techniques. Chain stitched, using hand dyed wool, each is a completely handmade piece. A more empowering way to work, this brings many direct benefits to the artists’ and their community. Control and ownership of intellectual property are also maintained. Purchase of these products guarantees a direct return to the Aboriginal artist and their community.