Jimmy Njiminjuma
(Australia 1947–02 Oct 2004)
- Language group
- Kuninjku, Arnhem region
- Title
- Namarrkon - the Lightning Spirit
- Other titles:
- Namarrgon - the Lightning Spirit
- Place of origin
-
Western Arnhem Land →
Northern Territory →
Australia
- Year
- 1985
- Media category
- Bark painting
- Materials used
- natural pigments on bark
- Dimensions
-
136.0 x 30.0cm (irreg.)
- Signature & date
- Not signed. Not dated.
- Credit
- Purchased 1985
- Accession number
- 220.1985
- Copyright
- © Jimmy Njiminjuma. Licensed by VISCOPY, Sydney
- Location
- Not on display
- Further information
This entity, who is responsible for lightning and thunder, which he produces by striking out with axes which protrude from his joints, is painted on both stone and bark in a form informants describe as ‘like a grasshopper’
Namarrkon is said to have ‘made’ aljurr, Leichhardt’s or the spectacular grasshopper (petasia ephippigera). The species emerges, mates and is most active and visible in the season known as Gunemeleng between October and December when there are intense electrical storms. Aljurr is then said to be 'looking for' Namarrkkon, the lightning spirit.
[Art Centre documentation]
