Cecilie Djalarrnami
Cecilie Djalarrnami
Gunga wungili (pandanus picture)
Pandanus and Natural Dyes on metal frame, 26 x 38 x 3cm, 2024
In May 2024, artists from Bula’bula, Milingimbi, Maningrida, and Gapuwiak Arts attended the Langarra Bush Gallery—a three-day gathering of Arnhem Land weavers on Langarra Island, near Elcho Island. The event featured exhibitions, workshops, and discussions aimed at encouraging creative experimentation and cultural exchange.
Weavers produced traditional Yolngu items from hand-spun bush string—such as bags, hunting tools, and ceremonial wear—while also exploring new formats like canvas-shaped works. These invited closer appreciation of the detail, colour, and craftsmanship of gunga (pandanus), celebrating both innovation and tradition.
Cecilie is an early career fibre artist whose work mostly comprises of woven mats. She has an eye for subtle detail making her pieces striking and immensely popular. Cecilie grew up surrounded by strong, accomplished weavers. She learnt to weave from her mother, Joy Gadawarr, her aunties Evonne Munuyngu and Mary Dhapalany, and continues to weave alongside her sister, Melinda Gedjen. Cecilie continues to learn from the older women and pass this knowledge onto her daughter, whom she is currently teaching.
Cecilie's totems are Sugarbag and Mewal.