Billy Dullman
Billy Dullman, born in 1944, is a celebrated artist from the Rembarrnga language group of the Yirritja moiety. He hails from the Malimali region, in the stone country south of Maningrida, Northern Territory. Billy belongs to the Nawakadj subsection and the Lambirra clan.
Early Life and Cultural Background
- Born: 1944
- Skin: Yirritja moiety
- Language: Rembarrnga
- Location: Malimali, Northern Territory
- Clan: Lambirra
- Subsection: Nawakadj
Billy began his artistic journey as a young boy, learning rock art from his father in the Malimali region. He underwent his young man’s ceremony at Malimali and later moved to Maningrida, where he worked on a freight boat sailing between Maningrida and Darwin, unloading cargo by hand. During this period, he married his wife, Dorothy.
Career and Artistic Development After a stint in the Bulman area, working as a laborer on construction sites, Billy returned to Maningrida and later moved to Oenpelli (Gunbalanya). It was at Oenpelli that he began his career as an artist in earnest, working with ochres on bark and paper. His artwork often depicts subjects such as Ngarrbek (Echidna).
Mediums and Style
- Mediums: Ochre on bark, ochres on arches paper
- Subjects: Ngarrbek (Echidna), Untitled works
Personal Life Billy has three daughters and, about ten years ago, moved to Katherine, where he continues his artistic practice.
Summary Billy Dullman's artistic career is marked by his deep connection to his cultural heritage and his innovative use of traditional mediums. His work, rooted in the traditions of the Rembarrnga people and influenced by his experiences across various regions of the Northern Territory, continues to be celebrated for its cultural significance and artistic excellence.