The University of Melbourne's Fiona and Sidney Myer Gallery has unveiled a new exhibition showcasing the striking works of Maŋgalili artist Paul Maymuru.
"Paul Maymuru: New Paintings Milŋiyawuy" introduces a collection of expansive paintings depicting the Milky Way, marking their premiere display at the gallery.
The exhibition signifies Maymuru's inaugural major presentation beyond the Northern Territory and marks the gallery's third partnership with a remote community.
Mr Maymuru spoke of his artistic journey, influenced by his father Baluka and grandfather Nanyin.
He assumes the role of Ḏalkarra, upholding the cultural traditions of the Yirritja moiety.
"My father Baluka, a renowned artist, imparted to me our sacred clan designs," he said.
"I draw inspiration from my grandfather, Nanyin, and his brother, Narratjin, a pioneering Yolŋu artist recognised nationally.
"Residing in Maŋgalili clan lands at Djarrakpi, my wife's ancestral territory at Balma, and at Gapuwiyak, I fulfill the role of Ḏalkarra, upholding the law, songs, patterns, designs, and sacred rites of the Yirritja moiety."
Dr David Sequeira, Director of the Fiona and Sidney Myer Gallery, said "there's a cosmological quality to a lot of Paul's work – the Milky Way is not just the subject of Paul's paintings, but also his songlines".
"At first glance the paintings appear similar, but the more time you spend with them, you start to notice subtle differences in the clustering of the stars and their positioning," he said.
"The pattern of stars bleeds off the edges of the canvas, imbuing the works with a sense of endless continuity or infinity – a feeling that the work is a fragment of something much bigger, and largely incomprehensible."
Dr Seqeuira highlights parallels between Mr Maymuru's esteemed position within the Maŋgalili community in East Arnhem Land and the cosmological themes depicted in his paintings, noting Mr Maymuru's role in transmitting knowledge.
"There's a real opportunity for people to immerse themselves in these works, to get lost in them – to even be hypnotised by them. They're very contemplative works," he says.
"That's the magic of this show. This is a show that says 'slow down, take time, be with me.
"It's about considering yourself as part of something much bigger than you. It's very humbling, and it reminds you of how connected things really are."
Paul Maymuru: New Paintings Milŋiyawuy will be exhibited at the Fiona and Sidney Myer Gallery from May 24 to June 22.
The showcase commenced on Friday, following the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music's annual Lighting the Wilin ceremony, which signifies the beginning of National Reconciliation Week 2024.
