Teho Ropeyarn
Angkamuthi and Yadhaykana • Artist & Curator
Artist Statement
Unggoonggu (star)
In the Angkamuthi dialect of north-western Cape York, unggoonggu (oong-goon-goo) is the language name for stars. The use of the star design in my works references the ongoing existence of our people since time immemorial. It is like a time-traveler, a guide that sees the passage of time and the manifestation of life.
Image: Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) 2027 Collaborative Hero Artwork Commission: Superhighway – Country Sings to Stars Dancing. Digital mixed media. Created with Red Ochre Republic by First Nations designers Tarquin Singleton (Yirrganydji) and Sheree Jacobs (Meriam), with creative contributions from CIAF Artistic Director, Teho Ropeyarn (Angkamuthi and Yadhaykana) and artists Peggy Kasabad Lane (Saibai Koedal Awgadhalgal), Jack Wilkie-Jans (Waanyi, Teppathiggi and Tjungundji), Sandra Delaney (Nunagal, Goenbal and Ngugi, Quandamooka), Douglas Tamwoy (Thupmul Clan, Gudang Yadhaykenu Tribe, Badu & Erub Islands), Daphne de Jersey (Gangalidda, Waanyi and Garawa) and Sabrina Rose-Toby (Gangulu).