MABEL JULI Wirroongoon

Mabel Juli is a towering figure in Australian Indigenous art, celebrated for her extraordinary talent and deep connection to Gija culture. As a senior Gija elder and respected artist, she embodies strength, wisdom, and artistic excellence, serving as an ambassador for her people and Country.Born on December 31, 1932, at Five Mile near Moola Boola Station, Mabel’s artistic journey is rooted in her ancestral land, stories, and traditions. Learning from her mother, Mary Peters, she absorbed the rich narratives of Ngarranggarni (Dreaming), which continue to shape her work.Mabel began painting in the 1980s alongside Queenie McKenzie and Madigan Thomas.Encouraged by the legendary Rover Thomas, she embraced her artistic voice, reflecting, “I started thinking about my country, I give it a try.” This moment marked the beginning of a remarkable career that has seen her work exhibited nationally and internationally.Her paintings, defined by striking compositions and ochre pigments, depict the sacred stories of Darrajayin. Through her art, Mabel preserves the knowledge and Law of her ancestors,ensuring their enduring presence. She remains steadfast in using natural materials, reinforcing her commitment to Gija traditions while engaging in contemporary artistic conversations.Mabel has been widely celebrated, as a finalist in the Telstra National Aboriginal and TorresStrait Islander Art Awards since 1994. A defining moment came in 2018 when her iconic Garnkiny Ngarranggarni (Moon & the Star Dreaming) was projected onto the Sydney OperaHouse as part of the “Badu Gili” program.Beyond her art, Mabel is a respected cultural leader, ceremonial singer, and dancer. Her life experiences, from cattle station work to raising six children, add depth to her work. In May2024, she received the prestigious Red Ochre Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her immense contributions to Indigenous art and culture.Mabel Juli�s legacy is one of fortitude, artistic brilliance, and dedication to safeguarding cultural traditions. Through her art, she continues to illuminate the deep relationship between land,identity, and storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on Australian culture.