Yathikpa

In recent years a strong group of female artists have emerged within the Yirrkala community. These women have been instructed in painting by their fathers and grandfathers and taught designs that have previously been the domain of men. Their works showcase the ongoing cultural inheritance and innovation in Yirrkala. Noŋgirrŋa Marawili is central to this group and spent many years assisting her husband with the cross-hatching on his works before working independently on her own works.

Marawili began her career as a printmaker, but in recent years has further refined her skills in painting to become one of the most unique artists working at Yirrkala today. In 'Yathikpa' 2013 Marawili represents fire burning backwards across country. The graduation of colour within the work are quite deliberate and are achieved through the mixing of various combinations of ochre. These subtle shifts enhance the sense of movement within the work.