Dhuwarrwarr Marika

Wall of Resistance, 2015–2020

Installation of Larakitj and Bark

Dhuwarrwarr Marika (born in 1946 in Australia / lives and works in East Arnhem Land, Australia) is a daughter of the former Rirratjiŋu clan leader Mawalan, who originally welcomed Christian missionaries to settle on his land, today’s settlement of Yirrkala. With deteriorating eyesight, poor health and after consultation with his sons, brothers and the elders of the group, Mawalan allowed his daughter to help him.

She is considered one of the first Yolŋu women to be authorised to paint the secret designs that represent the essence of the Rirratjiŋu. The artistic act with which Dhuwarrwarr Marika portrays her own identity and that of her clan can be understood as a manifesto of a long lasting tradition of resistance. The artist is a respected member of her clan, which is known for its leading role in the fight against expropriation and assimilation.

With the work shown here, Marikada takes up the concept of “The Aboriginal Memorial” collaborative work. Through it she manifests her history of resistance and the land claims of her clan.