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). Andrew Manakgu calls him korlonj (son). William is known for his intricate full rarrk paintings on bark and Arches paper.