Crusoe Kuningbal

Crusoe Kuningbal , also known as Guningbal , (* 1922 ; † 1984 ) is an Aboriginal artist who mainly produced wooden sculptures. His subject was the rock spirits, the Mimihs . Crusoe Kuningbal created Mimih sculptures for ceremonies dating back to the Aboriginal dream times, as well as some for sale at the arts center in Maningrida , Arnhem Land , Australia.

Mimih theme

Mimih are painted on rocks by Kuninjku aborigines and honored in dance and songs. The human-like beings are slim and thin and move on rocks and as soon as danger threatens, they withdraw into crevices or merge with the crevices so that they cannot be blown away by the storm. They are believed to have taught the Aborigines how to hold ceremonies and how to hunt. Numerous rock carvings are known. Mimihs are used as ceremonial figures in a ritual called mamurrng, or when a boy is born.

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From 1968 until his death, Crusoe Kuningbal made mimihs for ceremonial purposes and some for sale. In contrast to the painted Mimih figures, which were shown in different poses, the sculptures by Kuningbal made of hardwood are static. His wooden sculptures are designed with rows of white dots on a red background. During the last 10 years of his life, Kuningbal was the most distinguished and best-known wood carver of the Mimihs. His formal idiom has inspired numerous recent sculptures. Nevertheless, other artists deal with the Mimih theme.

When he died, his son Crusoe continued his father's tradition with 3 to 4 meter tall mimihs.

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• Mimihs from Kuningbal