For Noongar Yorga Aboriginal Woman of the Noongar Nation, Buffie Punch expressing her culture and spirituality through art is something the talented artist does ever so naturally.
Born in Albany, Punch's family connections are from Gnowangerup. Located in Western Australia, Gnowangerup is a small town known for its tight-knit community and rich culture.
Being the clever contemporary artist she is, Punch has created a successful career from her ability to fuse her culture and local upbringing into both digital and physical works of art.
Having spent several years in the education sector working with Indigenous youth, Punch has fused her passion for art with her advocacy and commitment for assisting and engaging at-risk youth.
Working with these youth-based groups, individuals and communities has seen Punch create artworks and artist pieces which support various school and community-based programs.
Aside from advocacy, education and support, the WA-based artist has also gone on to create her own accessories and jewellery brand as well as collaborating with established First Nations fashion brand, Kirrikin.
"I met Amanda Healy (Kirrikin founder) in 2019 and we instantly connected. Amanda has been a strong role model in my life. She is an inspiration and is always striving for more for our community and mob", Punch said.
If Punch's series of projects sounds like a lot of work for one artist, that's because it is.
Despite the mammoth amount of work Punch dedicates to her career, she is very humble in sharing that she enjoys being creative, signifying that the work she does do feels less like a task and more like a creative outlet of expression.
"I was born creative. It's in my blood," Punch told Style Up.
Having recently showcased her work at the First Nations Fashion Show and Aboriginal Art Exhibition event held at the UK's London Australian Embassy, it is evidently clear that Punch's work – along with her name – is growing to international acclaim.
"This is my first time being involved in an International celebration cultural exchange of art and fashion," she said.
Whilst Punch revelled in this opportunity to showcase and present her work overseas, she does believe that despite a significant industry shift, the need for greater representation within the fashion industry remains an ongoing, unsolved issue.
"I believe there has been a big shift in the last 5 years. When I first started in 2018 there were only a handful of Aboriginal artists and designers in the industry," she said.
"It is beautiful to see so many Indigenous artists and designers out there and more doors and opportunities are being opened, but I feel there is still a need for more representation and growth."
When discussing future plans, next steps and upcoming projects, the talented artist reveals that similar to her work, she too, is always evolving and open to new opportunities.
"My journey as an Aboriginal artist is always evolving. I look forward to embracing more opportunities and travelling around the world," she said.
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