| Initiation practices of the old days have been closely guarded knowledge for initiated men. The boy’s father, grandfather and big uncle would decide when the boy had attained sufficient maturity. The boys were generally aged sixteen or seventeen. They were taken to the special initiation area by a male relative or male elder from the country where the ceremonies were to be held. They were taught their songlines, dances and other sacred knowledge. Each boy had a male elder, general a brother-in-law, who acted as his guardian and mentor throughout the months of isolation. The boys stayed away for three or four during the Wiichinum (Kugu language) ceremony. When the rituals had been completed, the boys painted themselves with black charcoal. They then came out to greet their female and male relatives who were also painted black with charcoal. They carried grass spears. They thrust the ‘spear’ at each relative in turn as a form of greeting. The extended family brought gifts such as a woomera, a special spear or bundle of spears or a men’s dillybag. A large celebration of singing, dancing, and feasting would be held to welcome the young men back to the clan. |
| Artist Syd Bruce Shortjoe |
| Limited edition etching on paper. 39.5 x 49 cm |