Munupi Arts & Crafts Association is located along Melville Island
This Aboriginal Art centre is the most recently formed art centre on the Tiwi Islands. Established in 1981 and officially incorporated in 1990, the association merged the Yikikini Women’s Centre and Pirlangimpi Pottery, providing local artists with the opportunity to proudly celebrate Tiwi culture through both traditional and contemporary mediums.
Eddie Puruntatameri, the first president of Munupi Arts and Crafts, played a pivotal role in its formation. Having worked at Tiwi Pottery at Nguiu for many years, Eddie moved to Pirlangimpi in late 1983 to set up a pottery workshop in the community. Under his leadership, the first major works at Munupi included several large mural panels placed around the community at Pirlangimpi Airport, the Council Office, Pirlangimpi Pottery, and the Women’s Centre. Contributing artists included Thelca Puruntatameri, Reppie Orsto, Fatima Kantilla, Donna Burak, Francesca Puruntatameri, and Therese Ann Tipiloura.
The inaugural exhibition, 'Munupi Dreaming,' was held in October 1990 at Shades of Ochre in Darwin. This exhibition featured painted furniture, paintings, limited edition prints, and terracotta pots. Since then, Munupi artists have continued to exhibit both within Australia and internationally, participating in workshops at the art centre and abroad.
Munupi Arts & Crafts Association is renowned for its diverse range of artworks, including ochre paintings, pottery, carvings, weavings, screen prints, etchings, linocut prints, lithographs, and screen-printed textiles. Drawing inspiration from their lush natural environment and Tiwi creation stories, the artists employ ochres, gouache, and acrylic paint to create their works.
The centre plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the artistic traditions of the Tiwi people. The artworks reflect the deep connection the artists have with their land, Dreaming stories, and ancestral knowledge. These creations are both visually stunning and profound expressions of cultural identity and heritage.
Munupi Arts serves as a place where cultural knowledge is actively passed down through generations. The artists at Munupi are not only creators but also custodians of their cultural traditions, ensuring that traditional skills and stories are taught to younger members of the community. This exchange is crucial for maintaining the vitality and continuity of Tiwi culture.
In addition to its artistic contributions, Munupi Arts is committed to community development and empowerment. The association provides essential resources, training, and opportunities for economic development through art creation and sales. By facilitating the creation and promotion of Indigenous art, the centre helps ensure that artists receive recognition and financial benefits for their work.
Visitors to Munupi Arts can expect an immersive cultural experience. The centre welcomes guests, offering the opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their work, and gain insight into the cultural significance of their art. This personal connection enriches the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the depth and meaning behind each piece.
Despite being located in a remote area, Munupi Arts attracts visitors from around the world, drawn by the opportunity to engage with the rich cultural heritage of the Tiwi people. The centre also offers workshops and cultural activities, providing a deeper understanding of the Tiwi way of life.
Through the dedication of its artists, the support of its community, and the enduring power of its cultural heritage, Munupi Arts & Crafts Association continues to be a dynamic force in the Indigenous art world. For those looking to connect with the heart of Indigenous culture, a visit to Munupi Arts offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the enduring spirit and artistic brilliance of the Tiwi people.