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Goanna Dreaming Ruffle Dress

Goanna Dreaming Ruffle Dress

Regular price $60.00 AUD
Regular price Sale price $60.00 AUD
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This comfortable and stylish Goanna Dreaming Ruffle Dress is perfect for all kinds of outings.

This beautiful Goanna Dreaming Ruffle Dress brings summer fun with its frilly design and 100% cotton fabric for a comfortable fit. Perfect for toddlers who are always on the go! It's crafted with lightweight, breathable fabric that will keep your little one cool and comfortable all day long.

Made from 100% cotton. Available in sizes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Locally hand made on Dharawal Country on the South Coast of NSW.

Owned and operated Aboriginal business.

Size: Size Chart
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About the Artist

Ruth Nungarrayi Spencer.

This painting depicts a 'wardapi Jukurrpa' (sand monitor/goanna [Varanus Gouldii] Dreaming). This dramatic Jukurrpa travels between Purturlu (Mount Theo), approximately 150kms north-northwest of Yuendumu, and Yarripilangu (Newhaven), which is approximately 100kms southwest of Yuendumu. This painting focuses on the portion of the Jukurrpa that takes place at Yarripilangu, which is owned by Napaljarri/ Nungarrayi Women and Japaljarri/ Jungarrayi men. The portion of the Jukurrpa at Purturlu belongs to Napanangka/Napangardi women and Japanangka/Japangarrdi men.

This Jukurrpa tells the story of a Japangardi man named Wamaru who lived at jarrardajarrayi near a soakage called Juntangkalpa. He travelled south to Yarripilangu and approved a group of 'karnta' (women) that were sitting down in a circle there. He wanted to woo a Nungarrayi woman named Yurlkurinyi who was the wrong skin for him. By tribal law, this woman was his mother-in-law and their relationship would be taboo.

The Japangardi man wooed the Nungarrayi woman and they went up the hill at Yarripilangu where they made love. The earth there turned to 'ngunjungunju' (white ochre) and the man turned himself and all the 'karnta' (women) into 'wardapi' (goannas). The Japangardi then eventually brought the Nungarrayi women back to Purturlu to live, even though they were the wrong skin for each other.

White ochre is still found on top of the hill at Yarripilangu and is used today for love magic and for ceremonial decoration. There's also a cave where you can see the shape of a goanna entering. There are beautiful groundwater springs on the east side of the Yarripilangu hill. A number of important Jukurrpa associated with men's' initiation ceremonies pass through Yarripilangu: these include 'karnta Jukurrpa' (women's' Dreaming), 'ngalyipi Jukurrpa' (snake vine Dreaming), 'wati-jarra Jukurrpa' (two men Dreaming), and 'witi Jukurrpa, (ceremonial pole Dreaming).

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the product and billing.

How do I choose the right size for my child?

We understand that finding the perfect fit for your child is essential. Check out our detailed size guide on each product page with measurements to help you select the best size. If you're still unsure, feel free to contact us for assistance.

Do you offer gift wrapping or special packaging for gifts?

Yes, we do! You can opt for gift wrapping at checkout, and we'll make sure your purchase is ready for gifting. Let us know if you'd like to include a personalised message by adding your message during checkout or email us with your order number and message to admin@caressadesigns.com.au.

What if I change my mind about my purchase?

It's okay to change your mind! You have 60 days from receipt to notify us if you want to return your purchase. Just make sure the product hasn't been used, isn't damaged, and comes back with its original receipt.