The Rainbow Serpent by Dick Roughsey

There are many names and stories associated with the Rainbow Serpent, all of which communicate its significance within Aboriginal traditions, most particularly as a symbol of fertility, peace and unity. Dreamtime stories tell how the Rainbow Serpent came from beneath the ground and created huge ridges, mountains and gorges as it pushed upward. The name also reflects the snake-like meandering of water across a landscape and the colour spectrum sometimes seen when sunlight hits water at a certain angle. Paintings of the Rainbow Serpent first appeared in Arnhem Land rock art more than 6000 years ago and have continued today as works on bark and on paper.

About Author

Dick Roughsey (Goobalathaldin) (1920-1985), artist and writer, was born in 1920 on Mornington Island, Queensland, and named Goobalathaldin.  A member of the Lardil 'tribe', he was one of five brothers and grew up in an Aboriginal family clan, leading a traditional lifestyle.  His mother Kuthakin (later known as Minnie) was from the Lilumben or Eastern Lardil (Rock Cod people); his father Kiwarbija, meaning 'Rolling Sea' or 'Rough Sea', was also known as Kubulathaldin.  Their country was on the south-east (Larumben) side of Mornington Island and included the smaller Langunganji (Sydney) Island.

Specifications: Hardback