William Manakgu is the son of Solomon Manakgu and the well known weaver Anne Gumurdul. His brother Vincent Manakgu is also a painter. He is a traditional owner for Coopers Creek (Mangardubu) and Kubirdbu. William calls Kunbarllanjnja (Gunbalanya) karrardwarrekenh (mother land). William is known for his intricate full rarrk paintings on bark and Arches paper.