Epson Australia has joined forces with First Nations Fashion + Design (FNFD) to promote and support the growth of the Indigenous fashion sector.
Under the partnership, FNFD will have access to Epson digital printing technologies that will enable designers to convert their designs into products for sale.
The aim is to help First Nations designers tell their stories by printing their canvases, fabrics for fashion garments, and dye-sublimating designs on fabrics for soft furnishings.
The partnership will not only support the Incubator Program between FNFD x THE ICONIC but Epson products, technology, and expertise will also support the overall growth of FNFD and its designers.
FNFD founder and chairperson Grace Lillian Lee said: "Having Epson as a partner of FNFD gives us access to experts in the industry who can create new opportunities, boost skill development and industry engagement."
"This is also a partnership that allows Epson Australia to play a key role in a number of FNFD strategic initiatives that support First Nations designers and businesses who work within the Australian fashion industry," she said.
Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director of Epson Australia, said Epson's partnership with FNFD is "built on a shared vision of promoting cultural and economic sustainability".
"Through directly supporting inclusive and authentic initiatives such as THE ICONIC x FNFD Incubator Program, we will add value by providing access to the world's most advanced textile printing technologies. We will also share new skills and knowledge to help First Nations designers understand how they can digitally translate their designs into high-quality fashion," he said.
Over the next eight months, FNFD will hold workshops, events, and experiences developed by industry experts and educators such as Epson, The Hanes Group, and Bonds.
The program includes ongoing feedback from the Indigenous creative community, and the first places were recently awarded to Gunggandji designer Elverina Johnson of label Pink Fish, Mt. Isa designers Dale Bruce, Cheryl Perez, Glenda McCulloch, and Jaunita Doyle of label Myrrdah and Kuranda-based designer Briana Enoch of label Jarawee.
