Timothy Cook

When a gold ring forms around the moon during the final stages of the wet season, Japara the moon man is performing Kulama.  Inside this ring  a multitude of people sing and dance Kulama songs.  This is the time to prepare for Kulama, the annual celebration of life.  Large concentric circles often appear as the main element of contemporary Tiwi paintings, representing the Kulama circle or ceremonial dancing ground.  They are icons of Tiwi spiritual belief.   Source: Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association.  © Timothy Cook and Jilamara Arts and Crafts