Donny Woolagoodja facts for kids

Yornadaiyn (Donny) Woolagoodja (1947-2022) was an important Aboriginal Australian artist. He was a proud member of the Worrorra people. His community lives in the Kimberley area of Western Australia.

Amazing Artworks

Donny Woolagoodja was a very talented artist. He was known for his special art, especially his large-scale works. His art often showed the stories and culture of his people.

Olympic Games Artwork

One of his most famous artworks was a giant Wandjina piece. This amazing artwork was shown at the opening ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. It was a huge moment for Aboriginal art to be seen by so many people around the world.

Vivid Sydney Festival

Similar large artworks by Donny Woolagoodja were also featured. They were part of the 2016 Vivid Sydney festival. This festival lights up famous buildings in Sydney. His art was projected onto the Sydney Opera House sails, making them glow with his designs.

His Life and Community Work

Donny Woolagoodja was born in 1947. He was born at the Kunmunya Mission, which is on the beautiful Kimberley coast. His father was Sam Woolagoodja.

Leading the Mowanjum Artists

Donny Woolagoodja was the first chairman of the Mowanjum Artists Centre. This centre is a special place where Aboriginal artists can create and share their art. Being the chairman meant he helped lead and support many other artists in his community.

Awards and Recognition

Donny Woolagoodja received several important awards for his art and his contributions to culture.

• 2021 Red Ochre Award: This award is given by the Australia Council for the Arts. It celebrates the lifetime achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
• 2022 Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature: He was also shortlisted for the NonFiction Award. This shows his talent in storytelling, not just through art but also through words.

Donny Woolagoodja passed away in 2022 when he was 75 years old. His art and his work continue to inspire many people.