Region: Bulgul, NT

This coastal settlement consists of around 10 to 15 houses, spread along the coast north of the Daly River mouth. Life here remains closely tied to traditional customs, with residents continuing to engage in hunting, fishing, crabbing, and gathering native plants -practices that have sustained their ancestors for generations. The nearest town, Batchelor, is an hour and a half away, making it a secluded yet deeply connected home for its people.

For artists like Helen McCarthy Tyalmuty, Kerry Madawyn McCarthy, and their sisters, this land is more than a home, it is a place woven with memories of childhood, cultural teachings, and stories of resilience. Their grandparents lived through seismic changes, from the bombing of Darwin to attempts to return to Country unnoticed by government officials.

Stories of traditional childbirth, ceremonies, and survival in the bush are still within living memory, passed down by their Aunties, who are also artists. Through art, these powerful narratives are preserved and shared with future generations.

Bulgul artists are known for their bold, expressive works, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary techniques. Their paintings capture landscapes, personal histories, and cultural preservation, honoring both their ancestors and their evolving relationship with Country.

The art reflects the intersection of memory and place, using intricate patterns, dynamic brushwork, and striking color palettes to convey their deep connection to Bulgul.

Artists from this region have established themselves as significant voices in the art world, earning numerous accolades and establishing a reputation for innovation and excellence.