'Story of the Lightening Man' - Shaun Namarnyilk

Artist - Shaun Namarnyilk

Title - 'The Story of the lightening Man' - The Lightning Man, known as Namarrgon in Aboriginal mythology, is a powerful spirit figure in the cultural stories of Arnhem Land. Namarrgon is linked to violent lightning storms that occur during the wet season in Northern Australia.

Method - Acrylic on Canvas Paint - Matte Finish

Size - 755mm x 570mm 

Region - Gunbalanya, West Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

Date - 2024

Information about the artist - 

Shaun Namarnyilk is an accomplished Aboriginal artist from Gunbalanya, located in Western Arnhem Land. He is known for blending traditional rock art techniques with contemporary styles, deeply influenced by the ancient art found at Injalak Hill, a renowned site for Indigenous rock art. Shaun is also a skilled storyteller, musician, and tour guide, giving visitors a rich insight into his culture, including rock art tours.

His artworks are inspired by sacred stories and the landscapes of his ancestors. He incorporates pigments and ochre in his paintings, using the "x-ray style" technique to reflect the layered surfaces of rock art. This method involves leaving the canvas out in the rain, which helps build texture and gives his pieces the appearance of ancient rock art. His themes span both traditional knowledge and modern issues, such as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on remote communities.

Shaun has been part of multiple group exhibitions and also had a solo show titled Kunwarrde Bidi Munguyhmunguyh at Brunswick St Gallery in Melbourne

All traditional art comes with a certificate of authenticity.