Ochre - Sacred Pigment
The significance and gathering of ochre for art and ceremony.
Ochre is the primary pigment for rock art, body painting, and ceremonial objects. Ochre deposits are sacred sites, and the gathering, preparation, and use of ochre follows strict protocols. Ochre trades occurred across the continent, connecting distant peoples.
Ochre is the blood of the earth. When we paint with it, we paint with country itself.
Ochre use in Australia dates back at least 60,000 years.
Oral Tradition