MELBOURNE.- Sullivan+Strumpf is launching the new year with a standout exhibition from Yolŋu artist, Dhopiya Yunupiŋu, Djärritjarri - the woven cloth, opening Thursday February 15, until Saturday March 9, 2024. The youngest of the famous seven Yunupingu sisters, from the Gumatj clan in north-east Arnhem Land, Dhopiya Yunupingu's works on bark, ceramic vessels and larrakitj (memorial poles) are inspired by the long history of trade between the Yolŋu and the seafaring Makassans of south-west Sulawesi, Indonesia.

An encore to her sell-out commercial gallery debut at Sullivan+Strumpf Sydney last year, Djärritjarri - the woven cloth speaks to the significance of the fabric Galiku, a yellow cotton material steeped in history and symbolism that has been in use for centuries.

Traditionally used in the making of flags and sails for the Yolŋu's praus, Galiku is still worn today - for dancing and special ceremonies and occasions. Key to the Gumatj identity, the material is an ongoing acknowledgement of the seafaring Makassans whose centuries-old visits and settlements came to define the economy and society of Yolŋu.

In Dhopiya Yunupingu's words:

"Our dance and song celebrate the north wind which brings those boats carrying our family back to us. It sings the wind which snatches at the flags, makes them climb and fly, and then frays them and finally whips them away as it becomes the cyclone."

Born in 1950 in Nhulunbuy in North-east Arnhem Land, Dhopiya Yunupingu hails from one of the country's most distinguished and influential First Nations families. Her father Dr Muŋgurrawuy Yunpunpingu is renowned as one of the great Yolŋu leaders in politics and the arts. Her siblings include Australians of the Year, Galarrwuy and Mandawuy, and celebrated artists Gulumbu, Barrupu, Nyapanyapa, Djerrkŋu and Djakaŋu Yunupiŋu.

She currently lives in Yirrkala, in the Northern Territory.

In March 2024, Dhopiya Yunupiŋu will also present as part of the 24th Biennale of Sydney, Ten Thousand Suns, 9 March - 10 June 2024.