The art of body painting or Jilamara has been practised by the Tiwi for thousands of years. This patterning, usually in the form of lines, dots or random decoration expresses their individual cultural identity. These designs which appear also on Pukumani poles (burial poles) and tungas (bark baskets) are a significant element in much of the art produced by Tiwi artists. Tiwi artists work using a range of traditional and contemporary media and techniques including: natural earth pigments on canvas, bark and paper; carved ironwood sculptures; screenprinted silk and cotton fabrics; fibre art and ceramic functional and sculptural works. Tiwi art is a living and evolving expression of culture.

Renee Kerinauia applying a design to a large vase made by John Patrick Kelantumama while John watches on.