Australian Art Collective – Art for Everyone | Australian Aboriginal Art Gallery

John H Tipiloura

Ironwood Carving | Ochre

40 x 10 cm | 25194S

$290 AUD

Bird

Crafted from dense, locally sourced ironwood and hand-painted with natural ochres, this elegant bird sculpture by Tiwi artist John H Tipiloura captures the spirit and beauty of Tiwi fauna. The graceful curve of the bird’s form and the delicate detailing on the wings reflect Tipiloura’s skill as a carver and his deep cultural connection to Country.

The painted motifs—featuring cross-hatching and intricate dotting—are drawn from Jilamara, the Tiwi system of ceremonial body painting. These patterns are passed down through generations and carry deep meaning, often associated with identity, ceremony, and ancestral stories.

In Tiwi culture, birds are more than animals—they are messengers, guardians, and symbols of continuity. This sculpture, full of character and balance, stands as a tribute to that tradition. Each carving by Tipiloura is one-of-a-kind, shaped by hand and spirit, rooted in Tiwi heritage yet resonating with a universal elegance.