The Magic Of Munupi

Proudly celebrating Tiwi culture through traditional and contemporary art mediums, the Munupi Annual Christmas Art Sale returns with a wide variety of unique works from over 30 Tiwi artists.

^{By Jenna Kirkham}

FROM BEAUTIFULLY PAINTED canvases to pottery, Munupi Arts on the Tiwi Islands is renowned for their diverse artworks across a range of mediums.

Munupi Arts Manager Dashielle Allain says art is an essential part of life in the Tiwi.

“For the artists, it’s important they have an opportunity to showcase their work, living in the Tiwi Islands is an incredibly remote place. Having the opportunity to share their work with the broader audience beyond the Island is not only an opportunity to experience financial autonomy,” she says.

“But more importantly is the fact that they get to showcase their cultural heritage, their artistic ability, and the stories that have been woven across time, across history, and continue now into contemporary Australian life.”

This year’s art sale not only promises to delight art lovers, but it also offers the opportunity for the wider community to connect with the artists and gain a unique insight into their work.

“Expect to see the amazing work of the Munupi artists, there are around 30 artists’ work from the Art Centre. There will be two of those artists present, so people that are interested can come along and talk to the artists,” says Allain.

“People can come in and play around with some ochres themselves and hear first-hand experiences and stories from the artists.”

Drawing inspiration from their natural environment and stories of creation, Tiwi artists use natural ochres to paint onto canvas, linen, bark, and wood. Learn how the ochres are prepared, as well as how the unique Tiwi painting tool pwoja (comb) is used.

Find the perfect gift for the art lovers in your life or pick up a special something for yourself. It’s a great way to support Indigenous artists and their families, with Art Centres integral to the economic and cultural contributions to their communities.

“Beyond the cultural relevance of the art, and to the artist’s life, it’s a means to experience financial and economic autonomy which is an immense value – not only to the artists, but the broader Tiwi community,” says Allain.

Explore the abundance of art up for grabs across five days as Munupi artists showcase their individual art practices, take part in workshops, and enjoy demonstrations in a celebration of culture, community and connection.

Munupi Christmas Art Sale
WHEN TUE 26 – SAT 30 NOV | 10AM-5PM 
AT 33 SMITH STREET MALL
INFO munupiart.com