Langarra Bush Gallery

“We came up with the idea for Bush Gallery at the Laŋarra Outstation in April 2023. There were 15 women with us. We saw so many materials like leaves, plants, roots, and grass. We made dyes and noticed the strong colours. This camp embodied our dreams and visions, allowing the women to continue their work and weaving. The concept of Bush Gallery emerged from our happiness and strength as we worked together to preserve this craft.

We chose Laŋarra because it’s central to Gapuwiyak, Milingimbi, Raminginging, Maningrida, and Elcho communities. It is the place for the Wulbukulkara clan. Some of us came by boat, some on the barge, and some by plane. They brought their weavings, gunga, and tents. The barge was heavy, but we all made it.

The best part of Bush Gallery is that it’s something we have never done before—coming together with other weavers outside our community. Sharing knowledge, working together, learning from each other, and talking about new ideas. Everyone was doing hard jobs but it felt easy doing it together. The weavers, the families, the managers, the arts workers, and the community were doing it together.”

Ruth Namalkarra, Chairperson of Milingimbi Art and Culture

Langarra Bush Gallery was a three-day camp that included an exhibition, workshops and discussions for the Weavers of Arnhem Land. Langarra is an island located a 20-minute boat ride from Elcho Island in the Arafura Sea.

Langarra Bush Gallery was an opportunity for weavers to get together and foster a supportive environment where weavers can create and present work they are excited about, have discussions, make connections and celebrate the pride of their craft.

The event was generously supported by Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation (NTAIC), Milingimbi Outstations and Progress Resource Aboriginal (MOPRA), and the University of Melbourne.

Langarra Bush Gallery is an initiative by Milingimbi Arts and Culture.