Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
KIMBERLEY ART COOPERATIVES
Indigenous art of the Kimberley is unique. Encompassing powerful and strongly guarded Wandjina, prolific and
puzzling Gwion Gwion (Bradshaws), bright tropical coastal x-rays, subtle and sombre bush ochres and topo-
graphical dots of the western desert, every work sings a story about country.
To experience it firsthand, visit some of these Aboriginal-owned cooperatives; most are accessible by 2WD:
»
Mowanjum Art & Culture Centre
( 08-9191 1008;
www.mowanjumarts.com
; Gibb River Rd, Derby;
9am-5pm daily Dry, closed Sat & Sun Wet) Just 4km along the Gibb River Rd, Mowanjum artists recreate
Wandjina and Gwion Gwion images in this incredible gallery shaped like their artwork.
»
Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre
( 08-9168 2212;
www.waringarriarts.com.au
;
16 Speargrass Rd;
8.30am-4.30pm Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm Sat Dry, weekdays only Wet) This excellent Kununurra gallery-studio hosts
local artists working with ochres in a unique abstract style. It also represents artists from Kalumburu.
»
Warmun Arts
( 08-9168 7496;
www.warmunart.com
;
Great Northern Hwy, Warmun; 9am-4pm Mon-
Fri) Between Kununurra and Halls Creek, Warmun artists create beautiful works, using ochres to explore Gija
identity. Phone first from Warmun Roadhouse for a verbal permit.
»
Laarri Gallery
( 08-9191 7195; yiyilischool@activ8.net.au; Yiyilli; 8am-4pm school days) This tiny
not-for-profit gallery in the back of the community school has interesting contemporary-style art detailing local
history. It's 120km west of Halls Creek and 5km from the Great Northern Hwy. Phone ahead.
»
Mangkaja Arts
( 08-9191 5833;
www.mangkaja.com
;
8 Bell Rd , Fitzroy Crossing; 11am-4pm Mon-
Fri) A Fitzroy Crossing gallery where desert and river tribes interact, producing unique acrylics, prints and bas-
kets.
»
Yaruman Artists Centre
( 08-9168 8208; Kundat Djaru) Sitting on the edge of the Tanami, 162km from
Halls Creek, Yaruman has acrylic works featuring the many local soaks (waterholes). The weekly mail run from
Kununurra stops here (Ringer Soak).
»
Yarliyil Gallery
( 08-9168 6723;
www.yarliyil.com.au
;
Great Northern Hwy, Halls Creek;
9am-4.30pm Mon-Fri) Great new Halls Creek gallery showcasing talented local artists as well as some of the
Ringer Soak mob.
»
Warlayirti Artists Centre
( 08-9168 8960;
www.balgoart.org.au
; Balgo; 9am-5pm) This centre,
255km down the Tanami Track, is a conduit for artists around the area and features bright acrylic dot-style as well
as lithographs and glass. Phone first to arrange an entry permit.
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Sights & Activities
The visitor centre's excellent town map lists every conceivable attraction.
o
Norval Gallery
(Loch St; varies)
Kimberley art legends Mark and Mary Norval have set up an exciting
gallery-cafe in an old tin shed on the edge of town. Featuring striking artworks, exquisite
GALLERY
