Betty Muffler’s Ngangkari Ngura (Healing Country), 2022, is painted from above, with the canvas placed on the ground. The epic scale of the work provides an expansive representation of Country from the perspective of the eagle, including significant sites such as waterholes and waterways. The work is informed by the artist’s status as a ngangkari (traditional healer). Embracing a subtle monochromatic palette, the movement and energy in her painting comes from the activation of the eagle spirit. In her own words, ‘Through my paintings, you can see my Ngangkari work: watching over people and also looking after Country. My Country. This place is very important – we all need to look after each other and respect our home.’
