Title from title frames

The Ngurrara people know their desert country - it's where they grew up. But to claim their native title they need to show their knowledge of the land in a way that makes sense to them and the visiting Native Title Tribunal. They decide to paint their country - on a massive scale. Seventy artists set to work on a specially made canvas measuring eight by ten metres. The richness, complexity and energy of the desert life are intertwined with this creative process and the story of the Ngurra land claim. The film culminates in the paintings first journey to Canberra. It goes on display while adults and children sing and dance around it in a celebration of their country and in anticipation of claiming it back. Director/writer/camera - David Batty Producer - Mankatja Arts Editor - David Batty

In Process Record

Originally produced by Rebel Films in 1998

Mode of access: World Wide Web

In English