Work in Progress: Naminapu Maymuru-White

Naminapu Maymuru-White is one of the first Yolŋu women to learn to paint miny’tji, sacred designs that evoke the Maŋgalili clan’s connection to the cosmos. Using a technique inherited from her father, Maymuru-White creates her ‘rivers of stars’ paintings with monochrome earth pigments on layers of bark, using a fine brush made from human hair and a wooden skewer. As she prepares to debut a new bark series of bark panels with Sullivan+Strumpf at Frieze London 2024, Maymuru-White reflects on her sense of duty and hope in creating works that hold and share the stories and experiences of her clan.

Livia Russell Can you talk about your new work for Frieze London? 

Naminapu Maymuru-White My paintings explore the sacred songs that tell the story of the establishment of Djarrakpi as the homeland for the Maŋgalili clan in ancient times. This story was handed down to me by my father. He told me to hold it strong and to pass it on. This is not just a pretty picture or a nice story. This is the truth. This is our reality. 

LR What does your day in the studio look like right now? 

NM-W I mostly work in my lounge at home. There are always lots of people around, including small kids. Sometimes, they decide to paint themselves when I am not looking! I’ve had to repaint quite a few pieces over the years to cover up their work.

If it is too crowded or the weather is good, I move the bark or pole I am working on out onto a small concrete slab next to my house, which is only partly covered from the rain and the sun. I like to be surrounded by my family so they can learn.

LR Are there new sources of inspiration in your current work? 

NM-W Every day I am inspired by the beauty of the world around me and the stars. I paint what is true. I feel this sacredness. I am painting to try and share that feeling with people who don’t know about it. I want them to feel how special this is.

Further Information

Frieze London and Frieze Masters, 9 – 13 October 2024, The Regent’s Park.

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^{Main Image: Naminapu Maymuru-White at Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre in Yirrkala, 2022. Courtesy: Sullivan+Strumpf and Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre. Photo: Leicolhn McKellar}