Classical

Michael Reid Sydney presents a joint exhibition from Yolŋu sisters Djirrirra Wunuŋmurra Yukuwa and Moyurrurra Wunuŋmurra, artists and creative leaders at the Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre at Yirrkala, Northeast Arnhem Land. Djirrirra's practice interweaves two distinct visual languages: diamond designs depicting waters and fish traps of her homeland, and the Yakuwa motif—a sinuous, floral design referencing yam flowers. Her recent works experiment with found metal road signs as surfaces. Moyurrurra, working within the Dhaḻwaŋu iconography entrusted by their father, presents her first major solo exhibition. Despite their divergent trajectories, both sisters' work is distinguished by precision, skill and a deep engagement with classical Yolŋu art forms—designs that simultaneously express contemporary practice and ancient spiritual observance.