The work of Gupapunyngu artist Alfred Walpay does not conform to prevailing expectations in respect of traditional central Arnhem Land art. He takes an unrestrained approach to the subject matter he represents and his style is unfettered by formal convention.

Each figurative sculpture in this solo exhibition has been carved and assembled with natural media (Eucalyptus wood, bark, native grass and ochres) Walpay has found while hunting or footwalking throughout his country.

While some of these carvings (including a pair of magpie geese mid-flight) are decorated with ochre tones and formal designs characteristic of the art of the region, several others, like the human figures blending traditional and contemporary representative techniques, defy simple categorisation.

Limurru Wakiyun Gumbarrgu Ga Baldji (We Are Going Hunting for Emu and Yams) is a playful and poignant exhibition in which the artist’s joy in producing each figure can be tangibly felt. Mossenson Galleries, in conjunction with Milingimbi Art and Culture are pleased to the first solo exhibition from this new sculptor.

Limurru Wakiyun Gumbarrgu Ga Baldji (We are Going Hunting for Emu and Yams) will be opened at 6pm on Thursday 12 June 2008 by Ruth Nalmakarra and Chris Durkin of Milingbimbi Art and Culture. The artist will be present for the opening.