Deborah Wurrkidj was born in 1971. She is a member of the Kunwinjku language group of west central Arnhem Land and lives there with her people. She is well known for her fibre works and makes both coil woven and twined pandanus baskets. Her string bags, often large in scale, are made from the root bark of the Cocky apple tree (Planchonia careya). In some of her most spectacular pieces, she has incorporated coloured feathers from local birds, including the Australian bustard and black cockatoo. Wurrkidj has also participated in workshops coordinated by Maningrida Arts and Culture where she learnt etching and linocut printmaking techniques. She also carves and paints wooden sculptures following in her family tradition.