In northeast Arnhem Land, Yirrkala is a place where art is more than just paint on bark, it’s a living record of Country, culture, and resistance.
Now, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is bringing this legacy to Sydney with Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala, a major exhibition that invites visitors to experience the strength and creativity of the Yolŋu people through almost 300 works by over 95 artists.
Installation view of Mulka Wirrpanda with The Mulka Project 'Rarrirarri' 2023, as part of the 'Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 21 June - 6 October 2025 © the artists and The Mulka Project, Yirrkala, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio Credit: Diana Panuccio
A living tradition
For the Yolŋu community, art is a way of speaking for Country.
It’s a tradition that stretches back thousands of years and continues to evolve in the hands of each new generation.
The exhibition, curated by the Art Gallery’s head of First Nations Cara Pinchbeck, in partnership with the Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre, captures this living tradition in all its forms, from bark paintings and ceremonial poles to contemporary sculpture and digital media.
These artworks are not just beautiful objects, they are maps, legal documents, and statements of identity, passed down from Elders to young people as a way of keeping Yolŋu lore and knowledge alive.
Meŋa Munuŋgurr's Rumbal – Djapu freshwater' 2023, natural pigments on bark, 143 x 100 cm, courtesy of the artist and Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre, Yirrkala, © Meŋa Munuŋgurr's, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre
Art as activism
For decades, Yirrkala’s artists have used their work to make their voices heard beyond Arnhem Land.
In 1963, Yolŋu leaders sent the now-famous Yirrkala Bark Petitions to Canberra, protesting mining on their land and asserting their rights as Traditional Owners.
These petitions, combining words and art, became a turning point in the struggle for First Nations land rights.
That spirit of activism runs through Yolŋu power. Many works in the exhibition speak directly to issues of sovereignty, sea rights, and environmental care.
The Saltwater collection, for example, is a series of bark paintings that document Yolŋu connections to the sea and the fight to protect it - a reminder that art can be both a shield and a spear in the struggle for justice.
Nonggirrnga Marawili 'Lightning' 2017, enamel paint on aluminium composition board, 150 x 100 cm, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, purchased with funds provided by the Wendy Barron Bequest 2017 © Estate of Nonggirrnga Marawili, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre, Yirrkala Credit: Diana Panuccio
Family, knowledge, and innovation
One of the most striking things about Yirrkala’s art is the way it balances tradition and innovation.
Many of today’s celebrated artists, like Gunybi Ganambarr, Djambawa Marawili, and Mulkun Wirrpanda, are the children and grandchildren of those who first brought Yolŋu art to national attention.
Installation view of the Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 21 June 6 October 2025, all artworks © the artists, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre, Yirrkala, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio Credit: Diana Panuccio
Artist Gunybi Ganambarr is known for his bold use of reclaimed materials, corrugated iron, aluminium, and rubber—etched with traditional designs.
His work is a reminder that Yolŋu culture is not static; it’s dynamic, adaptive, and always looking forward.
Immersive experiences
Curator Cara Pinchbeck says “This exhibition traces the history of art making practice in Yirrkala and the distinct moments across Yirrkala’s amazing history when artists have deliberately changed their practice for a particular region.”
Visitors can experience large-scale installations, hear Yolŋu voices through video and sound, and take part in programs that deepen understanding of the art and its context.
For families and young people, there are interactive activities and resources that make the stories behind the art accessible and engaging.
Installation view of the Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 21 June - 6 October 2025, all artworks © the artists, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre, Yirrkala, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio Credit: Diana Panuccio
Why you should visit
Whether you’re a regular gallery-goer, a family looking for something meaningful to do together, or a visitor wanting to understand more about First Nations cultures, Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala offers something unique.
It’s a chance to learn about the history and activism of the Yolŋu people, and to reflect on the enduring relationship between art, Country, and community.
By visiting, you’re not just seeing art, you’re supporting the ongoing strength of Yolŋu culture. You’re also helping to ensure that the stories, designs, and voices of Yirrkala continue to inspire new generations.
Installation view of the 'Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 21 June - 6 October 2025, all artworks © the artists, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre, Yirrkala, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio Credit: Diana Panuccio
Plan your visit
Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala is on now until 6 October at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Tickets are available online, including MobTix for discounted tickets available to Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and First Nations people.
The exhibition is accompanied by a rich program of talks, workshops, and family activities.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the power of Yolŋu art and the stories it carries.
