Boomalli a word from three different language groups, Gamileroi, Bundjulung and Wiradjuri, meaning to make a mark; to strike. The name is the philosophy and Boomalli continues to make its mark within the wider arts community.

Since 1987 the membership has changed and grown and includes artists who are self-taught, art school trained, or have undertaken art studies through further educational courses. The Co-operative is a totally Aboriginal initiative and has developed substantially since its inception.

Mediums of art practice include painting, print-making, photography, new media, sculpture, fabric design and mixed media. Boomalli artists are creative people who are stretching boundaries, producing cutting edge art, challenging stereotypes and where necessary, being controversial. Their works illustrate the complexity and diversity of black cultural life and provide an opportunity for the wider community to participate in contemporary Indigenous cultural expression. Since its inception Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative has endeavoured to be at the forefront of contemporary Aboriginal art whilst still striving to provide a supportive base for its members and the artists represented in our projects. The Co-operative also acts as an information and resource centre, with an extensive slide and publications archives which is accessed by students, arts industry professionals, and other interested individuals and organisations, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal.

Consultancies are also undertaken on in-house projects - artists co-curating exhibitions, and on outside projects - lectures, seminars, conferences, and exhibitions.

Boomalli also has international networks and many of the artists have been involved in cultural exchanges, studio residencies, cultural festivals, seminars and exhibitions through projects either initiated by or offered to the organisation. At least six exhibitions are held in-house per annum. An annual commitment is made to hosting exhibitions for the artist members, and NSW artists. The work of young artists, including children, and artists in custody are exhibited alternately on a biennial basis.