The art of Peter Marralwanga - Old Master and ritual leader

Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast · Apr 7, 2026 · 17m

Peter Marralwanga was a leading figure in traditional bark paintings from Western Arnhem Land which depicted important ceremonies and creation stories like the Rainbow Serpent (called Bolung or Ngalyod) and the mermaid-like Yawkyawk. The creation spirits in his paintings were the Djang who made his country and placed the spirits of people within it. While many people from his generation were forced into missions, Peter insisted on staying on country where he was entrusted with the songs, dances and rituals of many different cultural groups. Through his paintings he wanted to share those…