Maree Warrawu Yoelu

Maree is a proud Wadjigan woman from the western Wagait area of the Northern Territory. She belongs to the Batjamal language group. Her mother is Leah Warrawu McCarthy and her grandfather is Harry Tyemeny Liman, a traditional canoe maker, respected elder and leader of the Wadjigan people. Kerry Madawyn McCarthy and Helen Tymulty McCarthy, two esteemed artists from the Bulgul community, are her sisters.

Maree grew up at Nauiyu Nambiyu Community (Daly River) where she would listen to her Aunties share stories that revolved around culture and Country. Maree is now a gifted storyteller in her own right who is passionate about keeping her culture, family stories and Batjamal language thriving. "I have chosen to share the things that are close to my heart," Maree explains. "I have often thought that some of the most endearing and heartwarming stories are those that are right in front of you". Her art is inspired by stories of home; the landscapes, colours, campfire yarns and hunting trips with family, all influence her creative ideas and imagery.

Maree is part of the artistic group known as the Bulgul Artists, an informal collective of family and friends from the Bulgul Community and surrounding regions in the Top End. The talented group now includes 15 artists and spans three generations. Whilst still an emerging artist, Maree is forging a unique form of expression, using rich colours and intricate dot work. She is unafraid to explore and expand her artistic vocabulary, which always leaves audiences excited and wanting more. This was certainly the case at Kate Owen Gallery's 2022 exhibition 'Bulgul - back to Country' where all her artworks sold.

As well as being a talented painter, Maree is an author, poet, and photographer. She released her first children's picture book in March 2020, titled Brother Moon (Magabala Books). In the same year, Maree was shortlisted in the National Photographic Portrait Prize for her work titled 'Alithia's Tree'. Maree was also shortlisted in the Queensland Poetry Festival Awards (The Oodgeroo Noonuccal Indigenous Poetry Prize), in 2020, for her work titled 'Words in the Wind'.

Maree lives in Darwin with her family, where she works in radio and continues to write stories connected to her people and culture. She's a person of the highest level of ambition and talent, and we look forward to what the future holds for her.