Alice Guiness Burndud Ground

Elder and senior artist Alice Guiness holds a deep connection with the Burndud, an important site and story for the Yindjibarndi people.

The Burndud circle is an important site and story for the Yindjibarndi people. It is a sacred law ceremony, taught by the Marrga (ancestral creation spirits who shaped and named the country) in the times of Ngurra Nyujunggamu (when the world was soft, the learning times).

Alice expresses her deep joy and positivity by painting the Burndud, mirroring the ceremony she dances every year at law ground in a circular continuous motion until the boys have returned from the first part of initiation. Her use of bold colour and vibrating patterns embody the rhythms and movement of the women dancing and the men singing. Alice’s Burndud paintings have become iconic across the Pilbara, representing Yindjibarndi Ngurra at many festivals and events.

Burndud Ground, commissioned by Perth Festival and presented by John Curtin Gallery, invites reflection on Alice’s lived experience with painting, ceremonial dance and connection to Ngurra. Along with a broad survey of Alice’s Burndud paintings, this major commission is a pathway for Alice to explore new mediums such as neon sculpture and immersive media installation. Audiences are invited to see, feel and hear Yindjibarndi Ngurra through vibrations of light and sound which teach the Burndud Song Cycle of birds, animals, plants, hills, water places, the stars and the moon. Alice’s works in collaboration with her family and friends to share the rich breadth of Yindjibarndi culture. Juluwarlu Art Group, who have worked with Alice for many years, are producing and supporting this commission, encouraging a growth in scale, immersive presentation and experience of Yindjibarndi Ngurra.

Supported By: Boorloo Contemporary Program Partner Wesfarmers Arts, Perth Festival, Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

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