Muluymuluy Wirrpanda | Curators introduction and exhibition opening

Art meets ecology in the work of Northeast Arnhem Land artist Muluymuluy Wirrpanda.

Lace-like patterns of Muluymuluy Wirrpanda’s paintings weave over their bark surfaces in soft pinks, tans and monochrome ochres as she relates the stories and uses of two important plants of her region: the bulwutja (water yam) and gunga (pandanas).

Born in 1959, Muluymuluy is a painter, ecologist and ranger with the Yirralka Rangers of Northeast Arnhem Land. She is also a matriarch for her family and is constantly moving from ceremony to ceremony to participate in the Yolŋu spiritual cycle.

Sister of the late painter and scupltor Mrs M Wirrpanda (1947-2021) Muluymuluy comes from a large family of well-known bark painters including her nieces Gurrundul and Yalmakany Marawili. In documenting the botanical features, traditional use and creation stories of plants, Muluyumuly aims to preserve knowledge of them for future generations.

Melding art and ecology, each painting details an extensive cultural history while also demonstrating the wide range of applications of these plants in weaving, as bandages and other practical uses and most importantly, their medicinal and health-giving properties.