Bushfood project receives government grant

KJ and Martumili Artists have been successful in securing a Regional Arts Resilience Grant for their collaborative project “Walk to Gather, Learn to Gather”.

In pujiman(desert born) times, Martu traditional botanical knowledge and expertise was taught in everyday life and handed down through generations, over thousands of years.

This cultural and ecological knowledge was crucial to the survival of Martu and plays an important role in the modern Martu life in retaining and strengthening connection to country and culture.

Unfortunately, the transfer of this knowledge to the younger generation is increasingly at risk with the passing of elders. It is essential this unique and complex encyclopaedic knowledge of country and culture is carried on and not lost forever.

This grant will enable Martu women many opportunities to increase their traditional botanical knowledge, through connecting with the remaining pujiman (desert born people) Elders who are able to share their expertise with younger Martu. 

This will be achieved through participation in on-country camps and the creation of art and other resources by Martu.

We would like to thank the Department of Local Government, Sport & Cultural Industries, the Royalties for Regions funded Regional Arts & Cultural Investment Program and Regional Arts WA for supporting this vital project.