Size: 138 x 90 cm

Title: Awelye Dreaming

Medium: Acrylic Paint on Canvas

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Raelene Stevens is from the Northern Rivers area of NSW. She has been painting for over 15 years. Her works have been sold both here in Australia and overseas. Raelene’s painting style incorporates many different techniques. Her use of colour is always bold and striking. 

The linear designs in Raelene’s paintings signify the women’s ceremony 'Awelye'. 'Awelye' refers to women's ceremonies associated with women's business and the painting of designs on a woman's body. This spiritual, sensuous and meditative performance reflects the nurturing role of women in Aboriginal society. The designs are painted during the 'Awelye' ceremonies on people's chests, breasts, arms, and thighs. Powders are ground from red and yellow clays 'Ochre'; charcoal and ash are used to paint the women's bodies. She applies paint with a flat stick with soft padding called 'Typale', and each woman takes her turn to be painted up. During the ceremony, women sing songs associated with their 'Awelye'. Women perform 'Awleye' ceremonies to demonstrate respect for their country and their community's total well-being and health.