The Art Gallery of New South Wales is in the midst of a major exhibition. It highlights the beautiful artistic tradition of Yirrkala. Titled “Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala,” this exhibition features nearly 300 pieces created by 98 Aboriginal artists, bringing together centuries of cultural, political, and social history. The exhibition is an opportunity for all people to deepen their understanding of First Nations laws, culture and people through the powerful artistic expressions.
Other artists of the Yirrkala community Wurrandan Marawili, Naminapu Maymuru-White and along with their prominent works produced the powerful pieces. Their art is intensely tied to Yolŋu identity and culture. Marawili’s enormous metal sculpture, Gamata — flames beneath the sea, is rich in crocodile symbolism. This totem is an important character in First Nations songlines. This powerful symbolism really does invite viewers to immerse themselves in Yolŋu worldview. Moreover, it fosters awareness of how and why they ought to relate to the land around them.
Naminapu Maymuru-White, who began creating art in her youth, presents “Milŋiyawuy,” a bark painting made with natural pigments that reflects her family’s artistic lineage. She has imparted her creative talents to her children, furthering the legacy of storytelling through art. Through their work, both artists highlight the need to share their culture with larger audiences.
A Journey Together
As Wurrandan Marawili tells us, he wants us to travel together “toward a better future.” His work is informed by his personal experiences, but it becomes a vessel of understanding in the audience to experience “Yolŋu power.” He sees art as a way to make connections and encourage a collective understanding of First Nations cultures.
Marawili’s artistic journey is inextricably tied to his close family connections. He reminisced about the influence of his father, stating, “Not just for this [medium], he taught me everything — dancing, singing.” He highlights the importance of learning from previous generations, affirming that “we are following our old people, doing [art] in the same way.”
Bingyu Warripanda, another artist involved in the exhibition, remarked on how creative designs and patterns describe the Yirrkala way of life. He emphasized that “archaeologists, anthropologists came to Arnhem Land to get all those messages from the Country,” highlighting the role of art in documenting history and cultural practices.
Documenting History Through Art
Beyond presenting individual talents, the exhibition acts as a witness to the shared history of Yirrkala, an ever-growing fecund tapestry. Cara Pinchbeck, who has been closely involved with the project, noted that the art documents the history of Yirrkala, including First Nations laws and familial ties. She pointed out that “that constant generosity and positivity in the face of adversity is just extraordinary,” reflecting the resilience of Yolŋu artists.
One poignant observation made by Pinchbeck during her research reveals the significance of these artworks: “One particular individual, who I was interviewing one day, said ‘they’re amazing, beautiful works, but no one appreciates … how important they are in terms of documenting our law.’” This brief statement highlights the cultural burden that each work on view shares in the exhibition.
The exhibition is helping to provide a path for younger generations to engage with their culture. Naminapu Maymuru-White recalled her father’s encouragement: “Dad said to us, ‘you continue doing your art in my footsteps.’” This sharing of culture and practice is an important part of Yolŋu identity, and it is underpinned by Yolŋu law.
An Invitation to Walk Together
From the mid-1930s, Yirrkala art-making has been directed towards an “invitation to walk together.” This method builds up passing dialogue and understanding between artists and the communities they execute in. This is what the current exhibition exemplifies with their call to “hear” the First Nations’ perspectives through performing arts.
Maud Page expressed her enthusiasm for attending the showcase, stating, “I had to be here [visiting the showcase] to see and celebrate some of my family’s work.” This feeling captures a deeper longing in community members and stewards of these sites to recognize their history and share the cultural significance with other Americans.
