Artist Profile: Noŋgirrŋa Marawili

Watch this intimate interview with artist Noŋgirrŋa Marawili (c. 1939–2023), filmed at her home in Yirrkala, Arnhem Land.

"You may spy on me and think that I am painting sacred things."

Watch this intimate interview with artist Noŋgirrŋa Marawili (c. 1939–2023), filmed at her home in Yirrkala, Arnhem Land. While her father Mundukul Marawili was also a celebrated artist, Noŋgirrŋa forged her own creative path. In her innovative paintings, the artist draws inspiration from her surrounding environment—rocks that stand strong and waves that crash against the rocks—capturing timeless and elemental subjects of the natural world.


In a dim museum gallery, an artist stands at an easel painting a large portrait on canvas, holding a palette. Framed portraits hang on the dark wall behind them. Bold yellow text over the scene reads ‘THE MUSEUM AS MUSE.’
Video
Artists Alex Katz and Wangechi Mutu explore works in The Met collection.
December 10, 2025
A woman with closed eyes rests her head on a surface, holding an ornate African mask. The sepia-toned image conveys a serene and introspective mood.
Discover Kiki de Montparnasse’s influence on Man Ray’s photography as much more than a muse.
Mark Braude
October 10, 2025
Cover of "Dan Burley's Original Handbook of Harlem Jive" shows a stylized person in a plaid suit and hat, set against bold, vintage typography.
Discover the foundational history of jive culture in the United States as a form of expression.
Brent Hayes Edwards
July 18, 2025
More in:Artists' VoicesArt-Making

A slider containing 2 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Nonggirrnga Marawili
2023
Baratjala, Nonggirrnga Marawili  Australian, Natural pigments and recycled print toner on eucalyptus bark, Madarrpa
Nonggirrnga Marawili
2022