Maruku literally means ‘belonging to black’. This is because Maruku is owned and operated by Aṉangu. For over 35 years Maruku has operated as a not-for-profit art and craft corporation. The distinctive pattern of tali (sand dunes), as seen in the art centre logo, is featured in many of the works of the artists, which mainly comprise walka boards and puṉu (wood carvings).
Approximately 500 Aṉangu artists from 22 communities are part of the collective that is Maruku. Our purpose is to keep culture strong and alive, for future generations of artists. We also provide an important form of income to artists living in remote communities across the Central Desert.
Currently, Maruku has a warehouse based in Muṯitjuḻu community and a retail gallery at Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa National Park Cultural Centre. Maruku artists mainly create walka boards, and puṉu (wood carvings). Artists from Muṯitjuḻu also paint for Maruku.
