The story of Murtankala and Purrukuparli and Purrukuparli’s law are important in understanding Tiwi religious tradition and are also a major subject in Tiwi art. Like any oral history though the story is dynamic and often reinterpreted or aspects given particular prominence.

John Bosco Tipiloura, in the accompanying statement to his work Purrukuparli and Bima, tells his version of the story:

In the beginning Purrukuparli and Wayayi (Bima) and their son Jinani went out searching for food in the mangroves. While Bima was looking for mussels and things Moonman (Japarra) came down to earth. Jinani with his dad Purrukuparli was crying for milk so he called for Bima to come and feed him. She did not hear for Moonman kept her with him as he was in love with her. She returned to her son too late for Jinani had died. As they cried for their son Japarra came down and asked them if he could take Jinani for three days and heal him. A fight began between Purrukuparli and Moonman. Purrukuparli won! Japarra got injured on his leg. Three days later the moon came out. It was a new, cresent moon. From the earth, Moonman’s scars on his leg could be seen. Purrukuparli carried Jinani into the ocean. They were never to be seen again. Gone forever. Bima cried and cried.

Today, at Pitchamera beach, you can still see his footsteps.

	Cyril James Kerinauia Tiwi born 1966 Hunting Party 2000 earthenware, wire		Tiwi cultural heritage and the land from which it is born continues to inspire Tiwi artists. However there are now new influences appearing in their art - these relate to contemporary culture.