Never been to paradise? Tiwi art offers a glimpse
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By Claire G. Coleman
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Credit:NGV
Jarakalani jantu (Turtle boat) (2001) by John Patrick Kelantumama – a bright little ceramic sculpture in green, pink and black – was the first piece I noticed when I exited the elevator. It was so vivid and exciting. Three men are riding in their fishing boat, the vessel transformed into a turtle by the excitement of the turtle hunt, growing flippers, a head and tail. It’s a bold and powerful piece, despite its size. I waited there for NGV curator Judith Ryan, who would be, to my delight, showing me around