Luma Luma
An original Aboriginal painting by Bruce Nabegeyo, from Oenpelli in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory.
Luma Luma — Bruce Nabegeyo, Oenpelli, Arnhem Land.
About the Artwork
Luma Luma is an original Aboriginal painting by Bruce Nabegeyo (1949–2009), an artist associated with the Oenpelli region of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
The painting was acquired from Mason Gallery in Darwin in 2013. It is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and the original purchase receipt.
The original Mason Gallery invoice, dated 17 January 2013, records the purchase price as AUD $6,600, including GST. The accompanying gallery documentation attributes the painting to Bruce Nabegeyo and records its approximate date of creation as 1995.
About the Artist
Bruce Nabegeyo (1949–2009) was an Aboriginal artist associated with the Oenpelli region of western Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
According to the biographical information supplied by Mason Gallery, Bruce lived mainly at Gabari, in his home country, and in the vicinity of Oenpelli. The gallery records his clan as Djalama and his tribal affiliation as Kunwinjku. He attended Oenpelli Mission School until approximately 15 years of age.
The gallery also describes Bruce’s involvement in local ceremonies and his connection with the Kunwinjku community of the Oenpelli area. His painting, Luma Luma, is presented here with respect for the artist, his work and the cultural heritage from which it originates.
About Oenpelli
Oenpelli, now commonly known as Gunbalanya, is a community in western Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
The region has a long and continuing Aboriginal cultural history. Its artistic traditions are closely connected with Country, community and cultural knowledge.
The association of Luma Luma with Oenpelli is an important part of the artwork’s background and provenance.
The Story of Luma Luma
The story accompanying Luma Luma is recorded in the original documentation supplied by Mason Gallery.
According to this account, Luma Luma was a giant who came to Arnhem Land from the sea near Millingimbi Island. He travelled through the region and became feared for his violent treatment of others. The account describes how the community eventually confronted him and killed him by spearing him.
The painting depicts Luma Luma travelling and collecting his food.
This description reflects the interpretation recorded by Mason Gallery and is presented here as part of the historical documentation accompanying the artwork.
Artwork Details
Title: Luma Luma
Artist: Bruce Nabegeyo (1949–2009)
Region: Oenpelli, western Arnhem Land, Northern Territory
Medium: Painting on hessian/canvas
Artwork dimensions: 107 cm × 152.5 cm
Canvas dimensions: 117 cm × 165 cm
Documentation: Certificate of authenticity and original purchase receipt.
Provenance and Ownership
Luma Luma was purchased from Mason Gallery in Darwin in 2013 for AUD $6,600.
The artwork is accompanied by its original certificate of authenticity and purchase receipt. These documents provide supporting information about the painting’s acquisition and provenance.
The painting is now being offered for private sale by its current owner.
Sale Enquiries
Luma Luma is being offered for private sale.
Expressions of interest are welcome from individuals, collectors and galleries interested in acquiring this original artwork.
Enquiries are welcome for further information, additional photographs and discussion of the artwork’s provenance and documentation.
Please use the contact details provided on this website to register your interest.
Contact and Enquiry
inquiry@aust-aboriginal-art.com.au