In this painting, Motorbike paints the story of the 'Ahakeye'. This is a very important story for Motorbike that belongs to his country. This story, its songs, dances and symbols have been passed down to Motorbike from his anscestors. The 'Ahakeye', called bush plum in English by Motorbike, is also known as the native currant or citrus. It belongs to the canthium attenuatum shrub which grows about 3m high. This shrub produces small white flowers, deep green citrus-like leaves and the ahakeye which are black when ripe and very small. This fruit is favoured for its sweet taste and can be reconstituted in water if dry.

Mbantua Gallery
Purchase date: 17th Oct 2023
Purchase price: $ 359.09

Artist’s Profile
Artist: Motorbike Paddy Ngale
Born: Circa 1932
Language Group: Anmatyerre / Arrernte (Aranda)
Country: Ahalpere, Utopia

Motorbike started carving in 2015, and painting in 2017 for Mbantua Gallery. Motorbike was married to Kathleen Ngale (deceased) and they have two children. Mathew Mpetyane and Elizabeth Mpetyane. They live at Camel Camp in Utopia region. Kathleen Ngale was a well-known artist and had been painting for Mbantua Gallery. Motorbike is very tribal and still makes boomerangs from time to time.