Elcho Island Arts is a Yolŋu owned and governed art centre, located in Galiwinku a remote community on Elcho Island. We have existed in many forms and locations, under different names and management. These days we meet, create, and share from our centre at the old clinic on the cliff.
We work for the artists and people of Galiwin’ku, focusing on traditional techniques and materials. We want an accessible space, that works for the community and surrounding homelands. Our Art Centre is vital to us as it “holds our traditions and cultural heritage for future generations” (Megan Yunipingu), and importantly “brings our culture back to Yolŋu people” (Judy Manany Gurruwiwi).
We hope to both preserve and celebrate our culture for our people and share our knowledge and skills with the world too.
Elcho Island Arts is open to visitors Monday to Friday, and by appointment.
Elcho Island
Galiwin’ku is a Yolŋu community located on Elcho Island around 550km from Darwin NT. Approximately 2500 people live here and its is the main community of both the island and the greater Marthakal region. Many languages are spoken, Djambarrpuyŋu being the most prominent. Located at the southern point of the Wessell Islands, Galiwin’ku is remote and culturally rich with many regarded visual artists and musicians hailing from this small island.
Marthakal Group
The Marthakal Group is 100 per cent Indigenous owned and governed. The organisation is committed to providing ongoing local benefit to the homelands of the region through provision of a number of services, specifically targeted towards supporting people in living and returning to their homelands.
Our Artists
Elcho Island Arts supports and represents both emerging and existing artists of the Marthakal region. Assisting in collection and preparation of materials, the art centre works with artists in the creation of quality works, exhibitions, marketing and continuing of knowledge. Artists represent the various clans and family groups of the Yolŋu people, and share stories that have been passed on to them as well as create contemporary pieces.
Visit Us
Visiting Galiwin’ku requires a permit that should be obtained from the Northern Land Council.
Commercial flights to and from the island are available through Air North and Fly Tiwi . Charters are available through the Marthakal Group .
Accomodation is also available through the Marthakal Goup and can be managed online here.