Mary Dhapalany

Dhapalany is a very skilled weaver. She has been making fibre objects for utilitarian and ritual use since her early teenage years. Her work includes mindirr (dilly bags), pandanus mats, gay’wu (bush string bags) and fish traps.

Dhapalany’s intricate fibre art creations have been displayed across the world. She has been selected as a finalist on a number of occasions for her works.

Language: Mandhalpuy

Traditionally, Nganiyal (conical mats) were used as an insect screen when erected in a tent-like shape, and as a sitting mat when folded. They are used in Ceremony as well as a functional item.

Nowadays, artists weave many different shapes including flat, round and oblong.