In memory of David Gulpilil
A magnificent actor of Aboriginal Australian extraction, gone much too soon.
I am heartbroken to learn of the departure for the realm of the Spirit of the actor David Gulpilil, properly and fully David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu, who was a member of the Yolngu people, one of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. (It has come to my attention that some of those peoples believe that the display photographs of those who have departed will disturb their spirits, so although I don’t know whether the Yolngu in particular are among those who believe in this specific taboo, I have removed the beautiful photo of him I had up a while ago; if you feel the need to view it, here is a link to it. You will have to click on the thumbnail at the top of the page to see it in full.)
I love and will miss Gulpilil’s gorgeously craggy face, and his intense, dignified, watchful, and soulful performance in the 2002 Philip Noyce film Rabbit-Proof Fence is one that I’ll always hold dear and that I’ll never forget. Ave atque vale.