Joe Manygulma - Nomad Art

Artist: Joe Manygulma
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Artwork Story

Joe Manyguluma is a senior member of the Dhamarrandji clan from Galiwin’ku, the main community of Elcho Island.

Joe and his family maintain strong links to the water and its role in the cycle of life. They live on Mission Beach, the main beach at Galiwin’ku and the surrounding sea and weather play a big role in their lives.

Joe’s nickname is Waltjan, the Yolngu Matha word for rain, and he is the keeper of great knowledge of local sea channels, is an avid fisherman and regularly advises government agencies on the health of marine life in the region.

Before discovering printmaking in early 2009, much of Joe’s work as an artist was focused on painting on canvas. In early 2009 Joe participated in workshops at Elcho Island Arts with printmakers Basil Hall, Antonia Aitken and Sean Smith from Basil Hall Editions.

The reduction wood cut prints Joe has created to date all explore and express his connection to and understanding of the force and beauty of water.