April Nulgit EXHIBITION

About The Artist

April Nulgit is an emerging artist whose work is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of her maternal and paternal ancestry. As the daughter of Warmun artist Charlene Carrington and a father from the Ngarinyin tribe of Derby, April’s artistic journey is a blend of powerful cultural influences, spanning generations. Raised alongside a family of artists, including her late great-grandmother Betty Carrington and her late grandfather Churchill Cann, April was inspired to begin painting at the age of 10, embarking on a path that would soon see her emerge as one of Warmun’s most promising young talents.

Growing up surrounded by the stories, traditions, and creative energy of her family, April often returns to her maternal ancestral Ngargooroon (Texas Downs) country, where she is deeply connected to the Ngarranggarni (Dreamtime) stories that form the foundation of her artistic expression. Through her weekend camping and fishing trips with family, she draws strength from the land, and the vibrant landscapes of her culture flow through her artwork.

April’s artistry is further enriched by her Ngarinyin heritage, particularly through the figure of the Wandjina; The Majestic Rain Spirit, which has become a powerful symbol within her work. By weaving together the stories of her dual tribal identity and ancestral lands, she creates a dynamic dialogue between the past and the present, celebrating her roots while exploring new boundaries. Innovating within her practice, April also ventured into the world of science, using microscopes to study ochre and the rich textures and forms it reveals. The resulting imagery has inspired her to create unique pieces that blend the worlds of art and discovery. Her ground-breaking approach was featured at the Vivid Festival in 2018 at the Powerhouse Museum, where her work was facilitated by Microscopy Australia and the University of Sydney.

April is an absolute master of ochre. She possesses an extraordinary ability to create stunning natural palettes using the same traditional materials that her ancestors used for generations. With deep respect for ancient knowledge and an innovative artistic vision, she transforms these raw earth pigments into breath taking contemporary works. Her mastery of ochre bridges the past and present, proving that cultural traditions are not just preserved but continuously evolving through new generations of storytellers.

April’s leadership extends beyond her artistry. She was voted as the chairperson for Warmun Art Centre Board of Directors 2025, underscoring her commitment to her community and culture. She is also currently undergoing training to become the first ever local Gallery Coordinator, a role she is poised to excel. As a passionate advocate for language preservation, April has been identified as a Gija language superstar. She plays an integral role in running WAC’s Gija language program for adults, working alongside the elders to ensure the continuity of her people’s linguistic heritage. April Nulgit’s blend of cultural pride, artistic vision, and leadership qualities positions her as a future trailblazer in both the art world and her community. Her dedication to honouring her heritage while pushing artistic boundaries ensures that the stories and traditions of her ancestors will continue to inspire future generations.

April’s work continues to gain recognition, with her artworks in high demand. As she prepares for a solo exhibition and is set to feature in several group shows throughout the year, April Nulgit’s artistic journey is one of both celebration and innovation. She is an emerging leader in her community, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression while honouring the deep, enduring stories and landscapes of her cultural heritage.