Thomas Munkanome

Thomas Munkanome, also known as Cockatoo Man, is an experienced Tiwi carver from Nguiu on Bathurst Island, recognised for his signature ironwood carvings of cockatoos and pelicans. His works have been featured in notable events and exhibitions, such as the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair in 2018 and 2022, the 2008 Awirankuwi Jilamara exhibition at the Helen Maxwell Gallery in Canberra, and the Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize in 2006 in Double Bay, NSW. Thomas also created one of the two large Tutini (Pukumani poles) that stand at the entrance of the Wurrumiyanga cemetery.