Djirrirra Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa: Sydney Contemporary 2024

At this year’s edition of Sydney Contemporary, the Michael Reid Sydney + Berlin installation will be anchored by a breathtaking collection of richly detailed paintings and soaring larrakitj by Djirrira Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa.

This monumental display will mark the celebrated Yolŋu artist’s first major release of new work since her acclaimed 2022 solo show at Michael Reid Sydney and arrives soon after her showing in the landmark exhibition Miwatj Yolŋu – Sunrise People at Bundanon.

Wunuŋmurra is among the most exciting voices to emerge in recent decades from the creative explosion at the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre in Yirrkala, Northeast Arnhem Land. Held in major collections across Australia and abroad – including the Art Gallery of New South Wales – the artist’s work is distinguished by an uncommon meeting of two profoundly distinct stylistic approaches.

On the one hand, her art is grounded by the continuation of a sacred geometric clan design (Buyku), while on the other, it effects a declaration of self through a complex, personal floral motif (Yukuwa).

The Dhalwaŋu clan design of the Yirritja moiety, the Buyku miny’tji is an intricate diamond pattern – gridded, angular and mathematically precise. The design was given to the artist by her father, the renowned artist and Dhalwaŋu clan leader, Yaŋgarriny Wunuŋmurra, with whom she worked for many years.

When Wunuŋmurra’s right to paint Buyku was challenged by a family member, she chose a different motif representing one of her own names, Yukuwa. Sinuous, floral and fractal, the design refers to an endlessly unfurling yam flower on the vine. The annual reappearance of the yam symbolises the revitalisation of the people and their land.

Our art fair presentation spans the two expressions of Wunuŋmurra’s practice, Buyku and Yukuwa, inviting the viewer to comprehend ideas around identities within a Yolŋu philosophical framework.

To receive an early preview and priority access to the latest work by Djirrirra Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa, please email dean@michaelreid.com.au