Stippling Plenitude: “The Water Man Does Not Get Wet—He Is the Rain Itself”
Johnny Warangkula Tjupurrula, Water Dreaming at Kalipinypa, 1972

Johnny Warangkula Tjupurrula’s Water Dreaming at Kalipinypa (1972) is widely regarded as one of the masterpieces of early Papunya painting. The ancestral figures of rain and lightning are combined with the story of Winpa, the lightning man who brings the storm. His presence is implied rather than depicted. The artist developed a unique form of stippling or “overdotting” that covers the figures beneath it while creating a shimmery surface with many potentials for conveying meaning. In this case, the painter’s efforts signify the plenitude, or richness, of his country rather than depicting the relevant ceremony. His subtle approach became a model for many other painters. It has called forth significant interpretive efforts, which are also discussed.