A landmark reference book which publishes for the first time the language and cultural traditions of the Thaynakwith people of Western Cape York was recently launched at the State Library of Queensland.

The book, Thanakupi's Guide to Language and Culture, completed by Cape York Elder and celebrated artist Dr Thanakupi (Thancoupie) Gloria Fletcher AO, is both a unique dictionary and a comprehensive collection of stories, songs and art.

This is a significant body of work which will ensure future generations continue to have access to their cultural heritage.

Dr Thanakupi is the only remaining fluent speaker of her language, making her book a critical resource which will undoubtedly attract interest from all over Australia and the world.

Thanakupi received an Australia Council for the Arts' Visual Arts Emeritus Award in February this year for her outstanding career as an Indigenous artist, teacher and community leader.

Thanakupi has been a pioneer throughout her life, in art and story telling, and now in capturing the culture of her people for posterity.

To order a copy of Thanakupi's book contact the publisher Jennifer Isaacs at www.jenniferisaacs.com.au

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