Heather (Anjolu) Umbagai

Heather Umbagai, also known by her Worrorra name Anjolu, was a respected Aboriginal artist and community leader from the Mowanjum community near Derby in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia. Born in 1954 at Wotjulum, she was the daughter of Elkin Umbagai, a prominent cultural figure and interpreter.

Heather's artistic practice was deeply rooted in her Worrorra heritage, drawing inspiration from ancestral stories, the natural environment, and personal experiences. Her paintings often depicted elements of her homeland, such as boab trees, native birds, and coastal landscapes, rendered in a vibrant and contemporary style using acrylics on canvas.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Heather was committed to community development and education. She completed a nursing degree and furthered her studies in Aboriginal Community Management and Development, linguistics, and theology. Her dedication to both cultural preservation and community wellbeing was evident throughout her life.

Heather's artworks have been exhibited nationally and internationally, with her first major solo exhibition held in Houston, Texas, in 2004. Her pieces are held in various private and public collections, reflecting her significant contribution to contemporary Aboriginal art.

Her legacy endures through her art and her unwavering commitment to her community and culture.