Dreamings is a
European term used by
Aborigines to describe the
stories about
religious or
spiritual beliefs, the
natural and
moral order of the
universe, from the beginning of
Creation to the
present.
The
Australian Aboriginals see themselves as the
custodians of
Australia. Their
dreaming is not just of the land, but of the
song,
dance and
mythology of the land. Their
paintings, seen on canvas nowadays were originally painted in the
sand and only lasted until the wind blew it clear. Since transferring to a more permanent art medium, one can now catch a glimpse of their
dreaming, their
way of life and values.
Aboriginal
Art has now taken its place in the collections of the great
museums and galleries around the world and is widely sought after. Rich and complex beliefs embodied in the Dreaming are expressed in art with many layers of meaning that reflects a
unique world-view. Present day enthusiasm for
Aboriginal art testifies to the
primal message it brings out in people.
Examples of physical representation of
dreamings (read as
art) are: Mimi
Spirit carvings, burial poles, spears, baskets, mats, weavings, string and
dilly bags, carved
emu eggs,
Didgeridoos, and
sand paintings.