Russellina Puruntatameri / Jamukatari (Tiwi Wet Season) (RPA1)

My name is Russellina Puruntatameri, I am a proud Tiwi woman from the Tiwi Islands which is 80kms north of Darwin. I was born in Darwin in October 1989 and raised on the Tiwi Islands.

My father is Russell Black (skin group: Takaringini) and my mother is Lydwina (Nina) Puruntatameri (skin group: Lorrula). I am the oldest of 5, I have two sisters and two brothers. I have been living in Melbourne, Victoria with my three daughters and partner for 5 years.

I developed my artistic skills from my family back at home where I grew up at Pirlangimpi (Garden Point) on Melville Island, at the local art centre and by watching and listening to their stories. My mum is a well-known artist and has been painting since before I was born, she still paints back home. She’s always sending tips and stories that she has passed down to me. Painting reminds me of being back home and also makes me think a lot of my grandfather who passed away in 1996. He was a carver making Pukumani (totem poles) and so was my uncle Tracy Puruntatameri. It is important to keep our Tiwi culture strong for the little children when they grow up, so they can learn our culture (stories, dances, language and art).

Jamukatari is the Tiwi wet season. Pakitiringa (rain) falls every day & the swamps, creeks, and rivers become full. Wunijaka (wind) comes from the northwest blows & brings rain. Lightning & thunder (Pumarali) are frequent. During this time, the mangrove worm breed both cheeky Wakatapa & sweet Yuwurli and the saltwater crocodiles (Yirrikapayi) build (Maruti) nests & lay eggs. There is lots of bush tucker available during Jamukatari.