Kalti paarti carving facts for kids
Kalti paarti carving is a special art form. It involves carving designs onto kalthi-parti, or emu eggs. People also call it emu egg carving. This unique art began in Australia in the mid-1800s. Many different people have practiced it. But it is especially connected to Aboriginal art.
The History of Emu Egg Carving
The art of kalti paarti carving became very popular in the mid to late 1800s. Some of the first carvers were not Aboriginal people. They made very fancy and detailed designs. These designs were quite popular back then.
Aboriginal artists continued this art form. They came from south-east Australia and the Carnarvon area. This was especially true after World War II. Aboriginal people in Australia wanted to show their identity. So, these artists started using symbols. These symbols were based on old traditional markings and designs.
Famous artists like Bluey Roberts, Badger Bates, and Adrian Morten created these kinds of designs. Later, artists such as Esther Kirby and Barry Belotti made realistic carvings. Their art often showed how European settlement changed their lands and lives.
Different Styles of Kalti Paarti Carving
The designs on a kalti paarti carving can show where the egg was made. For example, Paakantiji carvers often create silhouettes. These are dark shapes that tell a story. Wiradjuri artists usually make realistic pictures. They often carve these images on just one or two parts of the egg.
How Kalti Paarti Carving is Made
Since 1983, there are rules about emu eggs. The New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service made these rules. All emu eggs used for carving must come from emu farms. Carvers need a special license to collect the eggs.
To prepare an egg, small holes are made at both ends. Then, the inside of the egg is carefully removed. Artists use different tools to carve the eggs. These tools help create various effects. Some tools are sharp, like scalpels or knives. Other tools are abrasive, like emery boards.
