Forty Years of Fire Dreaming: Celebrating the Legacy of Warlukurlangu Artists During NAIDOC Week 2026

Yallingup Aboriginal Art is proud to present Forty Years of Fire Dreaming, a unique exhibition celebrating the 40-year legacy of Warlukurlangu (Warlu) Artists, one of Australia’s most respected Aboriginal-Owned Art Centres and a leading example of Indigenous cultural leadership.

Opening on 4 July 2026 and coinciding with NAIDOC Week’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, the exhibition celebrates two significant milestones: 40 years of Warlu Artists and 50 years of NAIDOC Week. Together, these anniversaries highlight the enduring strength of Aboriginal culture, storytelling and artistic expression, and the important role art continues to play in sharing knowledge, connection to Country and cultural identity.

Founded in 1985 in the remote Central Australian community of Yuendumu, Warlu Artists represents Warlpiri artists from Yuendumu, Nyirripi, Willowra and Yuelamu. The Aboriginal-owned, not-for-profit art centre works with more than 800 artists annually and has earned international recognition for its vibrant acrylic paintings depicting Jukurrpa (Dreaming) stories, Country and culture.

Forty Years of Fire Dreaming brings together a dynamic collection of works showcasing the bold colours, intricate patterns and rich storytelling that have made Warlu artists renowned around the world.

A defining feature of the art centre’s history is the leadership of Warlpiri women. While established through the vision of both men and women, senior artists including Dolly Nampijinpa Daniels and Uni Nampijinpa Martin played a pivotal role in shaping the centre’s cultural direction. Today, women comprise approximately 95 per cent of Warlu practising artists, continuing a powerful tradition of cultural leadership and artistic innovation.

The exhibition marks the first collaboration between Warlukurlangu Artists and Yallingup Aboriginal Art, reflecting a shared commitment to the ethical promotion of Aboriginal art and the celebration of First Nations cultural expression.

Yallingup Aboriginal Art Director Sara Greay said the exhibition is the culmination of a relationship that began at the 2023 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair.

“Our relationship with Warlu began when my late husband and Co-Director Tim Greay met Warlu Manager Cecilia Alfonso at the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair. Tim was passionate about sharing the work of Warlu’s renowned artists with audiences in the Southwest, and we’re honoured to now present this special exhibition celebrating 40 years of artistic and cultural achievement.”

A special highlight will be a much-loved “pack” of Warlu Dogs—colourful, character-filled sculptures that have become iconic within the Warlu community. Each dog is individually painted and named, with personalities as unique as the artists who create them. Proceeds from sales support vital dog health and welfare programs coordinated by Warlukurlangu Artists and community advocate Gloria Morales.

“Forty Years of Fire Dreaming celebrates an extraordinary artistic legacy while recognising the strength of the women, families and communities who have sustained Warlu over four decades,” Ms Greay said. “During NAIDOC Week, our Gallery in Yallingup offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Warlpiri culture through contemporary Aboriginal art.”

Located on Caves Road at the entrance to Yallingup Maze, Yallingup Aboriginal Art invites visitors to explore the exhibition throughout NAIDOC Week and the July school holidays.