Mandy Gaykamanu
Mandy Gaykamanu
Gay'wu (String Bag)
Pandanus Spiralis & baḻgurr (kurrajong), 65.5x22x15cm, 2023
Gay'wu (string bags) are made from the inner bark of baḻgurr (kurrajong) or the aerial roots of djaṉ'pa (ficus virens). Once extracted, the inner bark fibre is spun into string on the inner thigh of the artist. Creating a tight twine and making the raki (string) into a consistent gauge is a skill developed over time and with much practice.
This functional artwork exemplifies the artist's master skills in raki making as well as knotting techniques. This design is based on a traditional men's fishing bag.
Mandy Batjula Gaykamaŋu is a Gupapuyŋu artist from a strong matrilineal line, including her mother Helen Milminydjarrk and senior weavers Ruth Nalmakarra, Margaret Rarru, and Helen Ganalmirriwuy. In 2017, Margaret Rarru granted her permission to use Rarru’s signature black dye, which Batjula now combines with her own refined coil technique. Her practice follows the rhythm of harvesting, dyeing, and weaving bush fibres. Though young, her work shows the precision of a senior artist. She also paints Garrawurra clan designs, drawing from ceremonial body paint and the Djan’kawu Sisters story. Batjula moves between Laŋarra (Howard Island) and Yurrwi (Milingimbi), with her work held in major national collections including the Berndt Museum and the Australian Embassy in Washington DC.