welcome
Mardbalk Arts & Craft Centre is located on South Goulburn Island, in West Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Mardbalk supports artists from the communities of Warruwi (Goulburn Island) and Minjilang (Croker Island) who are proud Salt Water people. Mardbalk is the local word for the island.
Both Warruwi and Minjilang located in the Arafura Sea, off the coast of the Coburg Peninsular and are serviced by the West Arnhem Shire Council which is the major employer on the islands. The islands have stunning natural features that are pristine and a feast for the eyes.
Warruwi is approximately 330kms East North East of Darwin and has a population of 420 who all live on South Goulburn Island. North Goulburn Island remains a very special ceremonial island. Minjilang has a smaller population (approx 300) and is slightly closer to Darwin and West of Warruwi.
The islands are characterised by steep red cliffs, beautiful coral reefs, lush mangroves, fresh water billabongs and untouched beaches. The abundance of wildlife means that locals go hunting regularly and eat many traditional foods which were enjoyed by their ancestors. Favourite foods are salt water fish, dugong, turtle, oysters, crayfish, mud crab and stingrays.
The local wildlife features prominently in canvas and bark paintings and also carvings of mangrove timber. The wildlife is also represented in ceremonial dancing with hand made musical items such as clap sticks, didgeridoos, and morning star symbols, as well as shell and weaved jewellery.
The community is made up of three main clans, the Maung, Walang and the Gunwingku. There is also a strong presence of the Galpu Clan from nearby Elcho Island (Galiwin'ku). These clans offer a wonderful cultural mix to the islands, which in turn makes for fascinating and individual art works.
The traditional practices of stripping bark and using natural ochres, oxides and charcoals are still used regularly, as are grass tips for painting spectacular lines to represent saltwater, or define animals, which is a trade mark of Arnhem Land painters.
did you know?
Mardbalk Art & Craft Centre recently reopened under the West Arnhem Shire Council. The Grand Opening Celebrations were spectacular; the day began with traditional singing and dancing by the Galpu Tribe for good luck and prosperity and to welcome everyone to the event. Traditional Owner, Johnny Namayiwa welcomed the visitors from Darwin and beyond, followed by West Arnhem Shire Council CEO Mark Griffioen and Arts Coordinator Belinda Carlson. A healthy BBQ and tours of the Art Centre concluded the wonderful day for the Community of Warruwi.
Both Warruwi and Minjilang located in the Arafura Sea, off the coast of the Coburg Peninsular and are serviced by the West Arnhem Shire Council which is the major employer on the islands. The islands have stunning natural features that are pristine and a feast for the eyes.
