
Apphia Wurrkidj
1984
LANGUAGES: Kuninjku
COMMUNITY: Maningrida
CLAN: Kurulk
Apphia Wurrkidj, a talented artist hailing from a lineage of skilled painters, has learned the art of painting in the Mumeka style from her father, James Iyuna (deceased), and mother, Melba Gunjarrwanga.
PROFILE
Apphia Wurrkidj
1984
LANGUAGES: Kuninjku
COMMUNITY: Maningrida
CLAN: Kurulk
Apphia Wurrkidj, a talented artist hailing from a lineage of skilled painters, has learned the art of painting in the Mumeka style from her father, James Iyuna (deceased), and mother, Melba Gunjarrwanga.
She represents the next generation committed to preserving and advancing the artistic traditions of her community, particularly the use of strong geometric rarrk. This traditional crosshatching technique is central to her work, through which she represents key Djang sites on her clan lands. Djang, in her cultural context, refers to the eternal and life-giving transformative power that accounts for every aspect of existence.
The common subjects of her artworks include significant cultural sites and motifs such as the Dilebang (Waterhole) site, Wak Wak (Black Crow) at Kurrurldul, and Ngalyod (Rainbow Serpent). These subjects are not only deeply rooted in her cultural heritage but also serve as a conduit for expressing the rich narratives and spiritual beliefs of her community.
Apphia’s works are particularly noted for their intensity and the precision of her linework, which distinguishes her pieces from those of her contemporaries. Her ability to convey complex cultural stories through meticulously crafted designs has established her as a prominent figure in her artistic community, continuing the legacy of her parents by bringing traditional expressions into contemporary art practice.
ARTIST CV
2021 Northern Waters – Short St Gallery, Broome WA
2020 Taranathi Art Fair, Lot Fourteen, Adelaide SA
2020 Top End Bugi – Koskela, Sydney, NSW
2019 Bukkan Rowk: I am teaching you – Outstation Gallery Parap 2018 Tarnanthi Art Fair - Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, Adelaide
MARKET ANALYSIS
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