115682368683

Published by on

Woven Mat

Yolŋu weavers of Arnhem Land create utilitarian, ceremonial, and decorative pieces using naturally sourced materials. This mat is made from young Pandanus spiralis leaves, harvested with a wooden hook, stripped of prickles, and dried to create strong, resilient fibres. These fibres are then twisted, coiled, or woven using traditional techniques to produce both functional and decorative mats.

Bula’bula weavers exclusively use natural dyes, derived from locally sourced roots, leaves and grasses. These pigments are extracted and infused into pandanus fibres by boiling over an open fire, producing the rich, vibrant colours characteristic of contemporary Yolŋu weavings.

Traditionally, Nganiyal (conical mats) functioned as insect screens when erected and as seating mats when folded, playing an important role in both daily life and ceremonial practices. Today, Yolŋu artists create a variety of shapes, including flat, round, and oblong mats. These non-traditional styles and the use of bright colours became more common after Missionaries began commissioning pieces in this style.

Categories: Bula'bula Arts

Name: Mary Matjandatja Malibirr

Community: Ramingining

Biography:

Mary is an emerging fibre artist from Ramingining, known for her tightly woven, vibrant mats. She began learning the art of weaving as a young girl, watching her mother, aunties, and the elder women of her community craft mats and baskets. Over the past few years, Mary has steadily honed her skills, becoming a dedicated and evolving fibre artist. She now works alongside many other women from Ramingining, contributing to the region’s rich tradition of exceptional fibre artistry. Creating on her father's country remains central to her practice, and she is often joined by her sisters, who are also Bula'bula Artists.

Related Posts

Bula'bula Arts

115682366789

Lidjilidji (Crimson finches) This artwork represents totemic finches. These birds herald the beginning of the dry season and are associated with the Ganalbingu clan. Lidji Lidji are also represented in ceremonial song and dance.

Bula'bula Arts

115682367856

Dhawurr or Batjbarra (Fish Trap) Dhawurr, or Batjbarra, is a traditional fishing method used by Indigenous people in the Arafura Swamp and surrounding wetlands of Arnhem Land. Yolŋu now prefer the modern fishing methods of Read more…

Bula'bula Arts

115682367853

Woven Mat Yolŋu weavers of Arnhem Land create utilitarian, ceremonial, and decorative pieces using naturally sourced materials. This mat is made from young Pandanus spiralis leaves, harvested with a wooden hook, stripped of prickles, and Read more…

© the artist / art centre