Angela Malibirr Banyawarra

Born in Ramingining, Angela is the daughter of acclaimed artist Bobby Bununggurr. Her father spent time with her teaching her how to paint and teaching her significant storylines and songlines connected to their Ganalbingu clan. Angela is Bula’bula Arts current Vice Chair.

Language: Ganbalbingu

The long-necked turtle is a dreaming totem for the freshwater people, the Ganalbingu, whose country includes the World Heritage listed Arafura Wetlands in Central Arnhem Land, Northern Territory.

The Yolngu (people) of Arnhem Land originate from a spiritual source, fixed in a particular place in their land or the sea. These ‘Spiritual Reservoirs’ are often in the form of special waterholes made by Wangga (Creator Beings), long ago close to the beginning of time. These creator beings moved across the country side, shaping the land and implanting in each tract of country the spiritual life force for the people who were to own it.