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Djulabiŋ Malibirr, Bathi (woven basket)

Djulabiŋ Malibirr, Bathi (woven basket)

$429.00

Original Work of Art (1/1) — they all are!

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  • Aboriginal Artist - Djulabiŋ Malibirr
  • Community - Yirkala
  • Homeland - 
  • Aboriginal Art Centre - Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre
  • Catalogue number - 3418-17
  • Materials - Pandanus and Natural Dyes
  • Size(cm) - H15 W32 D18
  • Height when strung(cm) - H43

The age old practice of weaving baskets from the leaves of Pandanus continues today. Making these things is very labour intensive. Gathering the materials can be quite exhausting. The spiky pandanus leaves are sometimes difficult to harvest, followed by the careful task of flaying the leaves before hanging them to dry. Only the few central leaves of the palm growing from the core which have not bent are used. These can be ten or twenty feet high so a special crook known as a Galpuŋaniny must be used to work these out of the growing tree. The pandanus (known as Gunga- Pandanus Yirrkalaensis) recovers completely but cannot be re-harvested for some months. The dyes used are from the bulbs, roots or bark of various woodland plants. Each of these plants only grows in different specific locations. Once the material is collected, trimmed, dried and dyed the weaving begins. This is almost always done by women in groups. Men have been known to weave ceremonial or sacred objects but these are not for sale. Some of the plants used for dyeing are; Yiriŋaniny which is a small grass like plant with a red bulb under the ground, Burukpili (Cheesefruit/Noni) whose root gives a yellow dye. These and others are used with various catalysts like the ash from particular plants to create endless variations of colour. It is said that the practice of dyeing rather than painting fibrework with ochres is a practice that spread from the West but no time is specified. Circular and conical mats were a mainstay of Yolŋu family life in pre-contact times. As well as being used in ceremonial contexts they were useful for sitting, sleeping and child minding. Close weave conical mats kept mosquitoes at bay in the Wet. In ceremonial song the mat can correlate to the creation of life including the Sun as the ultimate source of all life. This form of coil weaving probably came with missionaries from the 1930s on as a style borrowed from the Narrindjeri from the Coorong. Yolŋu call these Bathi which means basket.

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Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre is the Indigenous community-controlled art centre of Northeast Arnhem Land. Located in Yirrkala, a small Aboriginal community on the north-eastern tip of the Top End of the Northern Territory, approximately 700km east of Darwin. Our primarily Yolŋu (Aboriginal) staff of around twenty services Yirrkala and the approximately twenty-five homeland centres in the radius of 200km.

In the 1960’s, Narritjin Maymuru set up his own beachfront gallery from which he sold art that now graces many major museums and private collections. He is counted among the art centre’s main inspirations and founders, and his picture hangs in the museum. His vision of Yolŋu-owned business to sell Yolŋu art that started with a shelter on a beach has now grown into a thriving business that exhibits and sells globally.

Buku-Larrŋgay –  “the feeling on your face as it is struck by the first rays of the sun (i.e. facing East) 

Mulka – “a sacred but public ceremony.”

In 1976, the Yolŋu artists established ‘Buku-Larrŋgay Arts’ in the old Mission health centre as an act of self-determination coinciding with the withdrawal of the Methodist Overseas Mission and the Land Rights and Homeland movements.

In 1988, a new museum was built with a Bicentenary grant and this houses a collection of works put together in the 1970s illustrating clan law and also the Message Sticks from 1935 and the Yirrkala Church Panels from 1963.

In 1996, a screen print workshop and extra gallery spaces was added to the space to provide a range of different mediums to explore. In 2007, The Mulka Project was added which houses and displays a collection of tens of thousands of historical images and films as well as creating new digital product. 

Still on the same site but in a greatly expanded premises Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre now consists of two divisions; the Yirrkala Art Centre which represents Yolŋu artists exhibiting and selling contemporary art and The Mulka Project which acts as a digital production studio and archiving centre incorporating the museum.

 

Text courtesy: Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre

We take great pride in offering high-quality, authentic Aboriginal Art pieces to you. However, we are aware that there have been instances (and recent press relating to the unaffiliated APYACC) in the Aboriginal Art market where the authenticity of some artworks has been called into question. We want to assure you and all of our customers that we firmly stand behind the authenticity of every artwork we sell.

In addition to our extended 120 days standard returns, we are pleased to offer a lifetime money-back authenticity guarantee to all customers who purchase Aboriginal Art from us, both past and present. This guarantee covers any disrepute or wrongdoing in association with the authenticity of any Aboriginal artwork sold by ART ARK®. We understand that purchasing authentic Aboriginal Art is important to you, and we want to provide you with peace of mind in knowing that they are getting what you paid for.

As part of our commitment to authentic Aboriginal Art, we work with reputable Aboriginal Art centres that we know are committed to maintaining the integrity of Aboriginal Art. Additionally, we continually monitor all aspects of the Aboriginal Art market and are acutely aware of, and are proactive in addressing any issues arising.

We take the authenticity of Aboriginal Art seriously and are committed to providing you with high-quality and genuine works of art. If you have any concerns about the authenticity of any art piece you purchased from us, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will investigate further. If we find any wrongdoing or disrepute in regards to the provenance or authenticity of any artwork we have sold we will happily provide a full refund to you at any time in the future outside of our standard returns policy. 

Thank you for choosing ART ARK® for your Aboriginal Art purchasing. We are honoured to provide you with authentic, high-quality art pieces and look forward to continuing to serve you.




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To keep pricing transparent, we deliver artworks as they come to us—unframed and priced in accordance with each art centre. Canvas and linen pieces are rolled for easy re-stretching at your local framer. Bark paintings and smaller items from our Stretched Desert Paintings collection arrive ready to hang. Watercolours should be framed behind glass, either custom or pre-made. Learn more about Framing Aboriginal Art.


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ART ARK Reviews
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01/03/2025
ALAN R.
Australia
A prompt and easy buy, thanks!
Simone Nampijinpa Brown, Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming) - Puyurru, 30x30cm
12/24/2024
David S.
Australia
Great service. Prompt and well packed delivery. Thank you
Yawuku #2 Garmu, Bathi (woven basket)
12/21/2024
Lynne S.
Australia
Fantastic service. Guy is very knowledgeable and accommodating. I have now bought several paintings from Art Ark and can highly recommend this gallery
Lena Young, Ngayuku Ngura, 49x46cm
12/10/2024
Penny G.
Australia
Thank-you to Art Ark and to other reviewers for sharing their wonderful experiences. As promised the painting we ordered arrived the next day. I was keen to get it straight away so I can get it stretched before our local art shop closed for Christmas. Art Ark is certainly reliable in their delivery...Thank-you to Art Ark and to other reviewers for sharing their wonderful experiences. As promised the painting we ordered arrived the next day. I was keen to get it straight away so I can get it stretched before our local art shop closed for Christmas. Art Ark is certainly reliable in their delivery times. As other reviews have said, and I couldn't agree more, the paintings are brighter and so evocative in person. This painting is bought as a gift for my son's 18th birthday. Yes, it's not a traditional 18th birthday gift but it makes sense for him for many reasons. I'm honoured to share the beauty and the stories of Australian indigenous artists with our son to mark his journey to adulthood in Australia. Thank-you.
Inawantji Jennifer Forbes, Minyma Kutjara, 91x61cm
12/10/2024
Briony L.
Australia
This piece by Doreen Chapman is as beautiful in person as it was when I saw it online. The subtle details like how it is painted on a black background and the lie bits of teal, really make the painting pop! The customer service from Guy has been exceptional. It’s always a pleasure to shop with Art...This piece by Doreen Chapman is as beautiful in person as it was when I saw it online. The subtle details like how it is painted on a black background and the lie bits of teal, really make the painting pop! The customer service from Guy has been exceptional. It’s always a pleasure to shop with Art Ark.
Doreen Chapman, Untitled, 76x46cm
12/10/2024
Jean P.
Spain
Organisation très sérieuse. Toile emballée avec beaucoup de précautions et parfaitement protégée. Envoie international rapide dès la commande. Organisation garantie. Jean Pierre POLI
Renae Nelson, Mamungari, 107x46cm
12/09/2024
Michelle D.
Australia
I recently purchased an Indigenous artwork, and it’s absolutely stunning. The colors and storytelling within the piece are captivating, and it adds such warmth and character to my space. A meaningful and beautifully crafted addition to my home—I couldn’t be happier with this purchase and experience...I recently purchased an Indigenous artwork, and it’s absolutely stunning. The colors and storytelling within the piece are captivating, and it adds such warmth and character to my space. A meaningful and beautifully crafted addition to my home—I couldn’t be happier with this purchase and experience with Art Ark.
Leanne Nungarrayi Jurrah, Yankirri Jukurrpa (Emu Dreaming) - Ngarlikurlangu, 46x46cm
12/04/2024
Don M.
Australia
Thanks for my recent purchase which arrived on time and in good order. I have purchased several pieces of indigenous art from numerous galleries over the years but I have to say that the process with ART ARK has impressed me greatly. It's obvious that you run a well managed ethical and extremely...Thanks for my recent purchase which arrived on time and in good order. I have purchased several pieces of indigenous art from numerous galleries over the years but I have to say that the process with ART ARK has impressed me greatly. It's obvious that you run a well managed ethical and extremely efficient business and for that you deserve the utmost credit. I look forward to making further purchases in the future and enjoying your knowledgeable and informative emails. Regards, Don
Kaylisha Napaljarri Ross, Ngatijirri Jukurrpa (Budgerigar Dreaming), 50x40cm
12/04/2024
Helen W.
Australia
I have been purchasing magical pieces from Art Ark over the last couple of years. It is important to me that the artist is well represented and I love that Art Ark collaborates with community and not for profit centres. I have learnt so much about indigenous art and the artists of the works I have...I have been purchasing magical pieces from Art Ark over the last couple of years. It is important to me that the artist is well represented and I love that Art Ark collaborates with community and not for profit centres. I have learnt so much about indigenous art and the artists of the works I have bought. I've been able to share this knowledge with family and friends. Delivery is very reliable and fast. And Guy is a delight! Thank you for your great service! Helen Whelan
Melissa Henry, Liru, 61x46cm
12/03/2024
Chloe S.
Australia
smooth process from Quoting to ordering and delivering the items on time
Pandanus Woven Mat (75-85cm centres)
12/01/2024
Lisa P.
Australia
Piece arrived safely and very quickly. The artwork was exactly as it was advertised on the website. Extremely pleased with the whole process.
Djul’djul Gurruwiwi Susan Wunuŋmurra, Witij - Rainbow Serpent, 96x48cm Bark
11/28/2024
Tim W.
Australia
I was impressed by Art Ark’s ethical commitment to deliver economic benefits back to Indigenous artists. That my painting was delivered within 3 days after bracing myself for a three week wait, blew my mind. And the art itself? Stunning
Jennifer Mintaya Connelly Ward, Kungkarangkalpa (Seven Sisters Story), 102x76cm
11/28/2024
Lynda D.
Australia
we recently purchased a lovely artwork from Art Ark. it was safely delivered over night! colours were true to website. thankyou!
Ivy Pareroultja, Going towards Ormiston Gorge, 36x25.5cm
11/22/2024
Stephen H.
United Kingdom
Great choice of work on the website and when it arrived looked even more amazing in real life. Easy to use website and seamless delivery to the UK arriving in perfect condition. Many thanks
Elsie Taylor, Walka, 91x76cm
11/14/2024
Jillian R.
Australia
Wonderful & fast service.
Murdie Nampijinpa Morris, Malikijarra Jukurrpa, 122x61cm
11/12/2024
Anise B.
Australia
We love this beautiful painting, thank you. A
Juliette Nakamarra Morris, Wanakiji Jukurrpa (Bush Tomato Dreaming), 30x30cm
11/06/2024
Daniel A.
Australia
We purchased 2 new peices through Guy and couldn’t be happier! His service and support through the whole process was brilliant. It’s such a great initiative what Guy is doing to support Aboriginal Art and we’ll continue to purchase with him in the future.
Helen Nungarrayi Reed, Lupul Jukurrpa, 182x91cm
10/29/2024
Bopaiah B.
Australia
The Ngalyipi Jukurrpa (Snake Vine Dreaming) painting is excellent and am very happy with the purchase. I will look at Art Ark for any further unique and individual aboriginal art or craft work.
Ingrid Napangardi Williams, Ngalyipi Jukurrpa (Snake Vine Dreaming) - Purturlu, 30x30cm
10/26/2024
Kim R.
Australia
Easy purchasing experience. All went very smoothly. Very happy with our purchase. Wilma produces the most impactful images of birds and animals. Full of character.
Wilma Napangardi Poulson, Birds that live around Yuendumu, 61x46cm
10/21/2024
Maleak B.
Australia
Really positive , very quick and prompt delivery. No negative notes.
Renae Nelson, Mamungari, 94x67cm
10/18/2024
Carmel C.
Australia
Absolutely thrilled with my beautiful woven sculpture. It arrived quickly and was carefully and thoughtfully packaged by the wonderful people at Art Ark. Highly recommend.
Nellie Coulthard - Tangki (donkey) Sculpture
10/16/2024
Mala P.
Australia
We purchased our first piece of aboriginal artwork through art ark. Absolutely love it. Great service
Judith Nungarrayi Martin, Janganpa Jukurrpa (Brush-tail Possum Dreaming) - Mawurrji, 122x61cm
10/15/2024
Jo O.
United States
Beautiful art and incredibly well packaged for shipment to USA. Arrived within days, excellent communication and service. Highly recommend ArtArk - great name BTW!
Jennifer Forbes, Minyma Kutjara, 61x61cm
10/10/2024
Maude S.
Ireland
We received our painting safe and sound and took it to a local framer to get mounted. We just hung it over the weekend in the kitchen and it has transformed the room. My partner comments on it daily. We are delighted.
Joanne Ken, Ngayuku Ngura, 100x82cm
10/08/2024
Kathleen W.
France
I have now bought 3 paintings from Art Ark: two smaller stretched ones and an unstretched Karen Napaljarri Barnes "Budgerigar Dreaming". I am delighted by the paintings which are beautiful and as many others have said, utterly true in colour to what you see on a high quality computer screen - they...I have now bought 3 paintings from Art Ark: two smaller stretched ones and an unstretched Karen Napaljarri Barnes "Budgerigar Dreaming". I am delighted by the paintings which are beautiful and as many others have said, utterly true in colour to what you see on a high quality computer screen - they are rich and dense and bright. No nasty surprises or even slight disappointments at all. And then, Guy at Art Ark cannot be faulted in his customer service: he is quick to respond, very helpful and friendly and genuinely interested in the life of the paintings after they've been sold. Thanks, Guy, for your help and enthusiasm. It is a pleasure to be able to buy such paintings in the belief that everyone invovled in the process is being respected. I have no hesitation at all in recommending Art Ark to anyone thinking of buying some beautiful Aboriginal art.
Karen Napaljarri Barnes, Ngatijirri Jukurrpa (Budgerigar Dreaming), 107x61cm
09/30/2024
PETA-JANE O.
Australia
As described and pictured :) x
Sarah Napurrurla Leo, Ngapa Jukurrpa (Water Dreaming), 30x30cm
09/22/2024
Matt P.
Australia
Unbelievable experience. A piece of art work from an amazing artist is stunning. We are so honoured to have this hanging in our home. Thank you. Then whole process is professional and quick. Highly recommend and will be buying again shortly.
Yvonne Nangala Gallagher, Yankirri Jukurrpa (Emu Dreaming) - Ngarlikurlangu, 30x30cm
09/17/2024
Louise D.
Australia
The painting was as pictured and I like it. It arrived incredibly quickly. There was a smudge I hadn’t seen, which is part of the painting process, but being a watercolour it’s obvious. When I zoomed in later I could see it on the website, but I think there should have been a close up photo to...The painting was as pictured and I like it. It arrived incredibly quickly. There was a smudge I hadn’t seen, which is part of the painting process, but being a watercolour it’s obvious. When I zoomed in later I could see it on the website, but I think there should have been a close up photo to highlight it. I decided to keep it as it is an interesting painting. It would also be good to have a description from the artist about their painting.
Shirley Namatjira, Mining on Country, 21x29.5cm
09/17/2024
Clementine B.
Australia
I was initially drawn to this piece because of the story. We get possums visit us daily at our place and often watch them scale the trees around our house. We feel like we live amongst their place. So the painting is an ode to them! The colours were even better IRL. Shipping was super speedy for a...I was initially drawn to this piece because of the story. We get possums visit us daily at our place and often watch them scale the trees around our house. We feel like we live amongst their place. So the painting is an ode to them! The colours were even better IRL. Shipping was super speedy for a last minute bday gift for my partner. Would buy again from artark 100%!
Judith Nungarrayi Martin, Janganpa Jukurrpa (Brush-tail Possum Dreaming) - Mawurrji, 30x30cm
09/17/2024
Gabriel N.
Australia
I purchased a beautiful woven basket for my wife’s 40th birthday. We both loved it and are very happy with the service. Looking forward to making more purchases in the future. Thanks
Batumbil, Bathi (woven basket)
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