Mathaman Marika facts for kids

Mathaman Marika (born around 1920, died 1970) was an Aboriginal Australian artist. He was also an important activist for Indigenous rights.

Mathaman was a member of the Rirratjingu clan. This clan is part of the Yolngu people from north-east Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. He was one of the famous Marika family. His brothers were Mawalan 1 Marika, Milirrpum Marika, Roy Dadaynga Marika, and Dhunggala Marika. Mathaman was the second oldest brother after Mawalan.

Fighting for Land Rights

Mathaman Marika and his four brothers played a big role in fighting for land rights. In 1963, they led other clans to present the Yirrkala bark petitions to the Australian Government. These petitions were important documents. They asked the government to recognise the Yolngu people's ownership of their traditional lands.

This action was a key step before the Gove land rights case. After his elder brother Mawalan 1 died in 1967, Mathaman continued this important fight.

The Gove Land Rights Case

The remaining Marika brothers were involved in a major court case in 1971. It was called Milirrpum v Nabalco Pty Ltd. This case is also known as the Gove land rights case. It was named after Mathaman's brother, Milirrpum.

All five Marika brothers were very active in politics. They worked hard for the rights of Indigenous Australians. Four of them were also well-known Aboriginal artists.

His Art and Stories

Mathaman Marika had a very important place in ceremonial life. He created most of his artwork from the late 1950s until he passed away. An art dealer named Jim Davidson, from Melbourne, became his friend. Jim Davidson also became Mathaman's agent in the 1960s. This helped share Mathaman's art with more people.

His paintings often showed important stories and themes. These included:

• The journey of the creator beings, Djang'kawu, to Yalangbara.
• The Morning Star ceremony.
• Different stories from the Nhulunbuy area.
• Stories about the Wagilag sisters from a different clan (Manhdalpuy). Mathaman's grandfather gained special rights to tell these stories in the 20th century. These rights have been passed down through the family since then.