Connection Across Water Artwork
Northpharm has reached another milestone, unveiling the second masterpiece in a series of five commissioned works. The latest piece, once again brought to life by Larrakia and Warramunga artist Rochelle Minberrignully Fejo-Tasker, shifts the focus from the mainland to the vast, healing waters surrounding the Northern Territory.
Following the success of 'Connection to Community,' this new work honours the "saltwater people" and the deep spiritual ties between the ocean and the clans Northpharm supports across the coastline.
A Tribute to Sea Country
The artwork serves as a vibrant map of connection, celebrating the diverse island and coastal communities that form the heart of the Territory’s maritime regions. Rochelle describes the significance of the work:
"This artwork is the second of five commissioned pieces for Northpharm. It serves as a tribute to the communities Northpharm services across the Northern Territory’s vast sea country, including the Tiwi Islands, Melville Island, and Groote Eylandt, home to many Anindilyakwa and Yolŋu clans.
The piece also honours coastal communities like Maningrida, Nhulunbuy, and Wadeye, all situated by the sea with deep, extensive connections to the sea country.
The focal point is the Dawudlirra (pronounced Da-wud-lirra), the Larrakia name for the Sea Turtle. For us saltwater people, the ocean holds profound healing and therapeutic power. We maintain many traditions and cultural practices dedicated to paying respect to our water spiritual ancestors.
The Flatback Turtle is a powerful and shared totem among saltwater tribes, symbolising healing, wisdom, health, longevity, protection, and fertility."
Symbolism of the Dawudlirra
The inclusion of the Dawudlirra (Sea Turtle) is a deliberate choice that mirrors Northpharm's own mission. By representing health, protection, and longevity, the Flatback Turtle serves as a guardian over the coastal pharmacy services that sustain remote communities from the Tiwi Islands to the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Continuing the Journey
This is the second installment in a five-part series that will eventually tell the full story of Northpharm’s reach across the Northern Territory. To follow the progress of this artistic journey or to see more of the artist’s portfolio, you can visit Rochelle Minberrignully Fejo-Tasker’s Facebook page.