Dhuwarrwarr Marika
Dhuwarrwarr Marika is a senior Yolngu woman from East Arnhem Land, a distinguished member of the Rirratjingu clan, and part of a family dynasty of accomplished artists and passionate advocates for Indigenous rights. Her family was notably involved in the historic Gove Land Rights Case, which led to the passing of the first land rights legislation in Australia. As a senior statesperson for her people, Dhuwarrwarr has served on numerous local and national committees, including as an executive member and women’s council representative for the Northern Land Council.
Dhuwarrwarr is the daughter of Mawalan 1 Marika (c. 1908-1967), a highly influential ceremonial leader, political activist, and artist. Her father broke convention by teaching his oldest daughters, including Dhuwarrwarr, how to paint alongside his sons. This groundbreaking decision paved the way for Yolngu women to establish themselves as painters in their own right. Today, this legacy is continued by Dhuwarrwarr and her sister, Banduk.
Throughout her life, Dhuwarrwarr has dedicated herself to a range of artistic, cultural, and community-based activities. After completing her education, she worked as a nurse in Yirrkala, Darwin, and Sydney before returning home to pursue her artistic talents. She learned basketry from her mother and aunt and the basics of Rirratjingu painting from her father. Dhuwarrwarr continues to depict many of her father’s designs with her own contemporary interpretation.
Dhuwarrwarr’s artistic journey began in the 1970s and has since encompassed bark painting, carving, mat making, and printmaking. She has also created murals for community buildings in Yirrkala, Darwin Airport, the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education, and the Atherton School in Queensland.